BMC PPP plan to let private operators run six schools on BMC land draws criticism

During a meeting of the civic education committee, the BMC's PPP policy to lease six school plots to private operators was discussed. BJP corporator Rohan Rathod questioned how much revenue the BMC would earn and what control it would retain over school management, noting the policy was introduced in December and urging clarity on timing. The six identified schools are Kanya Shala (Malad), Mahim BMC School, Malad Dhanjiwadi School, MHB Urdu School (Malad), Vakola BMC School, and Thakur Village BMC School; five have already responded. Rathod estimated the BMC would receive around ₹83,000 per month per school and argued the BMC would only get 3% of each school's revenue, criticizing the low rates for public land. Some members supported reviewing the policy, while Shiv Sena (UBT) members Pramod Sawant and Ankit Prabhu opposed handing over land to private players. Committee chairperson Rajeshree Shirwadkar directed the administration to answer all questions at the next meeting and halt any action on the policy until then. The session also covered illegal municipal schools (164 in total), with calls for strict action; Deputy Municipal Commissioner Prachi Jambhekar said 48 such schools' proposals are pending with the state government, and some have recognition.