MHADA’s 15th Lokshahi Day: A Step Toward Transparent Housing Solutions

Introduction:

In a continued effort to foster transparency, responsiveness, and accountability, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) hosted its 15th Lokshahi Day on February 9, 2026, at Housing Bhavan, Bandra (East). Under the leadership of IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal, MHADA's Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, the event saw the resolution of key housing-related issues, showcasing the authority’s commitment to facilitating efficient housing solutions for Mumbai's citizens. The program addressed a range of concerns from citizens, including housing transfers and grievances regarding additional charges in redevelopment projects.

A Productive Hearing Process:

The 15th Lokshahi Day facilitated hearings for 10 applications submitted by citizens, marking a significant stride in resolving long-standing issues. The applications ranged from requests for property transfers to questions regarding additional charges levied in redevelopment projects. MHADA’s transparent and streamlined process allows citizens to have their concerns addressed directly by officials, contributing to building a stronger bond of trust between the government and its people.

One of the standout cases involved Mrs. Deepti Dilip Pitale, who applied to transfer a tenement to her name and that of her husband, Mr. Dilip Pitale, after her son, the previous allottee of the property, passed away. The tenement was initially transferred through a gift deed from her mother-in-law, Mrs. Rukmini Dinkar Pitale, but the document’s validity lapsed after the son’s death. After hearing the matter, IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal responded promptly, showing sensitivity to the issue. He instructed the submission of a new gift deed within the next eight days for the transfer process to continue. This quick resolution is a testament to the efficiency and human-centric approach of MHADA.

Key Decisions and Swift Action:

In another important case, Mr. Prashant Toraskar, the son of a previous allottee from MHADA’s Siddharth Nagar project in Goregaon, sought the transfer of his father’s tenement following his passing in 2020. His father had left a clear will, which was duly probated, specifying that the tenement should be transferred to him. Mr. Toraskar’s application was heard during the Lokshahi Day, and IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal immediately directed the concerned Estate Managers to process the transfer by February 10, 2026, demonstrating MHADA's quick action to honor rightful property claims.

Additionally, an application by Mr. Pratapsingh Sawant raised concerns over additional charges collected from residents of the Sardar Nagar redevelopment project. Following the hearing, Jaiswal instructed the Chief Officer of the Mumbai Board to review the case and ensure that any additional charges levied were in compliance with established rules.

MHADA’s Commitment to Transparency and Accountability:

These cases demonstrate MHADA’s commitment to providing prompt and transparent solutions for citizens. With the leadership of IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal, MHADA continues to build trust by addressing issues in a fair and accountable manner. The Lokshahi Day, held monthly, not only resolves grievances but also serves as an essential platform for ensuring that the public’s voice is heard.

The event saw 8 applications related to the Mumbai Board, 1 related to the Konkan Board, and 1 from the Mumbai Building Repairs and Reconstruction Board, highlighting the wide scope of MHADA’s work in addressing housing-related concerns across the region.

Building Trust and Transparency:

MHADA’s regular interaction with the public through Lokshahi Day has proven to be a vital tool in fostering greater transparency and responsiveness. With over 15 Lokshahi Days conducted successfully, MHADA has created a platform where citizens feel comfortable raising their concerns and know that action will be taken.

The participation of top officials, including IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal, in these hearings adds credibility to the process and reassures citizens that their issues will be treated with the seriousness they deserve. By addressing cases in real-time, MHADA is proving that it is more than just a housing authority—it is an institution that listens and acts on behalf of the people.

Future Outlook:

With the upcoming cases being reviewed, MHADA is poised to continue its efforts to streamline housing processes and improve the living conditions for residents across Mumbai. As housing challenges continue to grow, MHADA’s proactive approach to resolving disputes, ensuring transparency, and adhering to rules and regulations will play a critical role in shaping the future of Mumbai’s housing market.

In summary, MHADA's 15th Lokshahi Day under the leadership of IAS Sanjeev Jaiswal has not only resolved critical housing disputes but also reinforced the organization's reputation for efficiency and accountability. As the authority continues to improve its systems and processes, Mumbai’s residents can look forward to a more transparent and responsive housing system.