Drone Spotted Near Uddhav Thackeray's Residence Triggers Political Controversy in Mumbai

Mumbai Police has provided an official clarification following a drone sighting incident.

Mumbai:

A drone was observed flying near 'Matoshree', the residence of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai, prompting the Thackeray faction to raise allegations of potential surveillance in what they described as a high-security, no-drone zone.

At the time of the incident, Uddhav Thackeray was not present at his residence as he was on a tour in Marathwada.

Aaditya Thackeray, Sena (UBT) leader and son of Uddhav Thackeray, claimed that the drone appeared to be "peeping into the residence" and quickly departed when it was noticed.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Ambadas Danve and Anil Parab expressed serious concerns regarding the drone's presence, calling for an investigation into what they termed a "serious security breach." Parab additionally emphasized the need to exclude any extremist angle, describing the incident as "highly sensitive" given the Z+ security status of Matoshree.

Shortly after the incident, Mumbai Police issued a clarification stating that the drone was part of an authorized Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) survey in the BKC-Kherwadi area for the ongoing pod-taxi project. Police confirmed that permission had been granted for the period between November 8 and 16, and urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation.

Aaditya Thackeray, however, questioned why residents were not informed if it was indeed an authorized survey and asked whether an MMRDA survey would specifically target 'Matoshree'. He further criticized the Mumbai infrastructure body for "focusing on surveillance instead of improving ground-level work," citing the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link as an example of "corruption and poorly executed projects".

Sheetal Mhatre, spokesperson for the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), dismissed the opposition's concerns as unnecessary drama. "The MMRDA had proper police permission. This is routine survey work. The UBT faction is only looking for sympathy ahead of elections. Instead of approaching the police, they rushed to the media. They don't cross-check anything. They simply want attention," she stated.