AMN /
MUMBAI: Maharshtra government has earmarked a fund of Rs 8 crore for 4 municipal corporations to counter radicalisation in Muslim youths. The fund has specially meant for — Bhiwandi, Malegaon, Aurangabad and Sangli-Miraj-Kupwada —municipal corporations all of which have a sizeable Muslim population.
However, there is no clarity in the govt’s decision on what exactly development would entail. “It is expected that funds should be utilised in minority dominated urban areas for providing various facilities.
The decision was taken in a meeting headed by CM on de-radicalisation of youths and preserving communal amity. Urban development dept.has approved the funds for 4 municipal corporations and one municipal council in its first phase,” a Govt Resolution said.
It has also defined minority-dominated areas that have more than 10% population of Muslim, Christian, Buddha, Jain, Sikh and Parsi communities. Funds would be given to the local bodies in two phases. This year, Rs 1 crore will be given. The remaining funds will be distributed after ensuring that 75% of the earlier funds are spent.