Mumbai- Thousands of Dharavi residents took to the streets on Saturday to protest against the deplorable living conditions in Asia's largest slum, with demonstrators specifically calling out their local representative, Congress leader Varsha Eknath Gaikwad of Mumbai North-Central constituency.

More than 5,000 residents participated in the demonstration, raising slogans and demanding immediate action to address issues including lack of clean water, poor sanitation, and unhygienic conditions that plague their community.

The protesters, who emphasized their non-political alignment, challenged Gaikwad and her family members to experience life in Dharavi's slums for a month. Protesters chanted slogans against Gaikwad, including "Varsha Gaikwad... Hai Tauba," and warned of intensifying their agitation if their demands go unheard. "We challenge Varsha Gaikwad or any of her family members to spend a month in Dharavi’s slums," said one protester. "If they oppose development after that, we will accept their stance. But if they continue to allow us to live in these horrible conditions while they enjoy luxury, we will take to the streets again."

Residents highlighted various concerns, from the safety of their children to overflowing toilets and contaminated water. One demonstrator voiced a common sentiment among the community, pointing out that only Adani has the capability to undertake the development task in the slums.

Social activist Sujit Gupta, who joined the rally, emphasized the unified demand for completing ongoing surveys and initiating development work without delay. The residents expressed frustration with political opposition to development projects, with one local, Nilofer, asserting that politicians who protest against development should experience living in the slum's unsanitary conditions themselves. The protesters warned of intensifying their agitation if their demands for basic amenities and improved living conditions continue to go unheeded.