World Homeless Day: Voices Raised for the Rights of Mumbai’s Homeless; Strong Demand for a Dedicated State-Level Policy

World Homeless Day: Voices Raised for the Rights of Mumbai’s Homeless; Strong Demand for a Dedicated State-Level Policy

On the occasion of World Homeless Day, a special programme was organised at Bodyguard Lane, Tardeo, Mumbai, to highlight the challenges faced by homeless citizens and advocate for their rights, rehabilitation and access to permanent housing. Renowned Right to Information (RTI) activist and senior journalist Anil Galgali attended the programme as the Chief Guest.

The programme featured detailed discussions on the problems of homeless people, shelter facilities, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the PM SVANidhi scheme and the urgent need for a dedicated state-level policy for the rehabilitation and empowerment of homeless citizens.

The efforts of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, State Shelter Monitoring Committee Chairman Ujjwal Uke and Anil Galgali in addressing issues concerning homeless people were appreciated during the event.

Anil Galgali praised the work of Brijesh Arya, Founder of Pehchaan Foundation, and his team for their consistent efforts towards the welfare, rehabilitation and empowerment of homeless citizens over the years. Addressing issues related to the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and the demand for permanent housing, Galgali assured the community of his support in resolving the difficulties they face. He also provided information about shelter homes operated by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Galgali emphasised that access to permanent housing is essential for homeless citizens to live with dignity. He stated that sustained follow-up was being undertaken in coordination with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to address the housing concerns of the homeless. Expressing hope that the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and SRA initiatives would bring positive progress over the next two to three years, he urged everyone to stand firmly with Pehchaan Foundation and continue working towards this goal.

Brijesh Arya, Founder of Pehchaan Foundation, strongly demanded a dedicated state-level policy for homeless citizens. He emphasised that a comprehensive and effective policy is essential for ensuring meaningful rehabilitation and providing homeless people with access to housing, government welfare schemes and other necessary support.

Arya also informed the gathering that Pehchaan Foundation’s team is assisting election officials and Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in the Election Commission of India’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process across various Assembly constituencies in Mumbai. The organisation is conducting awareness activities and following up to ensure that no eligible Indian citizen experiencing homelessness is left out of the electoral rolls. He also discussed the *My Mumbai Photography Project 2027* in detail.

During the programme, several homeless women courageously shared their experiences, concerns and difficulties. Their participation highlighted the importance of listening to the voices of homeless citizens and ensuring that their concerns are addressed through effective policies and sustained action.

The programme was successfully conducted by Subhash Rokade, social worker associated with Pehchaan Foundation, who also proposed the vote of thanks.

Among those present were Pehchaan Foundation members Sameer Vaykar, Raj Singh (SIP), Bela Kharwa, Koki, Anita Kharwa, Sony Vatan, Kari, Yasmin, Manju Butiya and Anita, along with several other homeless citizens and social workers.

The programme concluded with a strong message that homeless citizens deserve more than temporary shelter—they deserve permanent homes, social dignity, equal rights and access to government welfare schemes. A dedicated state-level policy was highlighted as a crucial step towards achieving these objectives.