Mumbai: Drone spotted near Uddhav Thackeray’s residence 'Matoshree', Shiv Sena-UBT raises security concerns
Mumbai: The sighting of a drone near Uddhav Thackeray’s Matoshree residence has raised the security alert levels in the area, reflecting growing concerns about unauthorised aerial surveillance of political leaders.
A drone was seen hovering outside Uddhav Thackeray’s residence, 'Matoshree', in Mumbai on Sunday morning (November 9). Security personnel stationed at Matoshree noticed the drone and immediately informed Thackeray. The drone, flying close to the residence, was also recorded on video. Shiv Sena (UBT) suspects that the drone could be used for surveillance on Thackeray and plans to file an official complaint with the police to investigate the matter.
Mumbai Police clarifies drone activity
Responding to the concerns, Mumbai Police stated that drone operations were being conducted in the BKC and Kherwadi areas with permission from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). The drones were being used for authorised survey purposes, and the police urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation regarding the incident.
Aditya Thackeray questions unauthorised drone surveillance over residence
Aditya Thackeray alleged that an unidentified drone was seen hovering inside the premises of his home early this morning. Upon media reporting of the incident, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) claimed that the drone was flown with Mumbai Police’s permission for conducting a survey in the BKC area. Thackeray challenged this explanation, questioning which survey permits aerial spying inside homes and allows drones to flee immediately after being spotted. He criticised the authorities for not informing the residents beforehand and questioned whether MMRDA was specifically monitoring his home or the entire BKC area.
Demand for accountability and better governance
Thackeray urged MMRDA to focus on addressing incomplete and corruption-tainted projects like the MTHL (Atal Setu) instead of conducting aerial surveillance. He also demanded clarification from Mumbai Police on why residents were not notified about the drone operations, pressing for greater transparency and accountability in public actions impacting citizen privacy and security.
Security sensitivity and ongoing monitoring
The drone sighting near Matoshree has earlier heightened security alert levels around the residence, showcasing the growing concerns over unauthorised aerial surveillance of political figures.