Cities

Aaditya Thackeray attacks BJP govt over tanker strike

Elizabeth Taylor जून 8, 2026

ht-generic_cities2_1769511880449_1769511907099-7

Table of Contents

Aaditya Thackeray Criticizes BJP Government Over Mumbai Water Strike

Aaditya Thackeray attacks BJP govt over a recent disruption in Mumbai’s water supply, sparking renewed criticism of the city’s governance. As the Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA, Thackeray has been vocal in denouncing the policies that have led to the current crisis, which saw a significant disruption in water availability across parts of the city. The strike, organized by the Mumbai Water Tanker Association (MWTA), has left thousands of residents scrambling to access clean water, with many relying on private tankers to meet their daily needs. Thackeray’s sharp remarks highlight the growing frustration among locals and the perceived ineffectiveness of the ruling administration in addressing the issue.

Regulatory Strains and Operator Challenges

Thackeray pointed to the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) as a key culprit, citing its stringent regulations that have placed immense pressure on tanker operators. The association is required to obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the CGWA, demonstrate ownership of at least 200 square meters of land, and adhere to BIS drinking water standards. These rules, Thackeray argues, have created a financial burden that is unsustainable for small-scale operators, forcing them to halt services to avoid losses. “These regulations are not just burdensome—they are a direct threat to the livelihoods of those who depend on water distribution,” he emphasized in a recent public address.

The MWTA’s decision to strike was not made lightly, with its president, Jasbir Singh Bira, explaining that the association has been compelled to take drastic action due to the inability to comply with the CGWA’s demands. “We are being pushed to the edge by these rules, which have not been adjusted to reflect the unique challenges of Mumbai’s water infrastructure,” Bira said, underscoring the lack of flexibility in the regulatory framework. Thackeray used this as a platform to accuse the BJP-led government of prioritizing bureaucratic control over the practical needs of its citizens, a claim he has reiterated in multiple public statements.

Broken Promises and Unfulfilled Reforms

Thackeray also highlighted the BJP government’s failure to deliver on previous promises to streamline water supply regulations. In 2022, during a similar strike, the BMC and BJP had pledged to revise the rules to make them more equitable for tanker operators. However, the administration has not followed through on these commitments, leaving the sector in a state of uncertainty. “The BJP has shown no willingness to adapt, even after repeated calls for reform,” Thackeray said, drawing attention to the government’s sluggish response to the crisis.

Adding to the criticism, Thackeray pointed out the BJP government’s decision to abandon a proposed desalination project in 2022. The initiative, which aimed to provide an additional 100 million liters of water per day by 2025, was seen as a potential solution to Mumbai’s recurring shortages. Instead, it was shelved without clear reasoning, leaving the city dependent on aging infrastructure and overburdened tanker services. “This project could have alleviated the strain on our water supply, but the BJP chose to ignore it,” Thackeray asserted, further fueling public discontent.

As the situation escalates, Thackeray has called on the Union Jal Shakti ministry to intervene and review the regulations. “Why does the BJP hate Mumbai so much?” he questioned, emphasizing the disconnect between the government’s policies and the city’s pressing needs. His comments have resonated with many citizens, who are now demanding urgent action to restore normalcy in their daily lives. The water strike has become a symbol of broader governance issues, with Thackeray’s campaign gaining traction in both political and public spheres.