Activist’s claims of prostitution at Manori & Gorai resorts goes unheard

A social activist had filed a police complaint with the Gorai police station in June against 49 illegal guest houses and resorts at Gorai and Manori alleging that prostitution activities are being carried out there. However, the guest houses are still functional despite orders being issued for demolition for majority of the guest houses since they did not have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and aren’t fire compliant.

According to Mohan Krishnan, President of National Anti-Corruption and Crime Preventive Council, “Many young boys and girls from other parts of Mumbai visit the beaches at Gorai and Manori. They are accosted by the guest house staff. Most of the hotels charge on an hourly basis. Prostitution activities are being conducted at these guest houses. There are also high chances of rape and murder being committed there.”

In a letter dated August 9, the Gorai police responded to the complaint filed by Krishnan. The letter stated, “As per the complaint issued by Krishnan we have conducted a proper check and inspected the premises. No prostitution activities are being carried out at the 49 guest houses.”

According to Ramesh Nangare, Senior Police Inspector, Gorai police station, “'We had dispatched a team of officers to conduct an inquiry in this matter in August. They inspected the guest houses and restaurants. However, as per the claims made by the complainant, we have found that no prostitution activities are conducted over there.”

In February, a letter had been issued to the executive engineer of Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to take action against the unauthorised constructions since the land falls under their jurisdiction. As per a letter dated February 2, the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) had stated that necessary assistance of men and machinery would be provided to carry out the demolition.

A letter was also issued to the Fire Brigade department in February. Out of the 49 guest houses, only seven guest houses are fire compliant and were issued a NOC. The Assistant Commissioner of P/ North Ward was instructed by the MCGM to visit the premises and verify the trade activity and take necessary action against the parties as per the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) Act.

“The MCGM authorities, MMRDA authorities and the police are all hand in glove to cover up the prostitution activities. Strict action should be taken against the guest houses. Last year, a minor girl was raped at a lodge in Gorai,” said Krishnan. A letter was also dispatched to the Municipal Commissioner and the Mumbai Police Commissioner in this regard. But still no action has been taken.

Many young boys and girls from other parts of Mumbai visit the beaches at Gorai and Manori. They are accosted by the guest house staff. Most of the hotels charge on an hourly basis. Prostitution activities are being conducted at these guest houses - MOHAN KRISHNAN President of National Anti-Corruption and Crime Preventive Council