Navi Mumbai: The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has clarified that all facilities at the homeless shelter in Sector-4, Ghansoli are functioning satisfactorily, and beneficiaries have raised no complaints. The clarification follows media reports based on a video circulated on July 26, 2025, allegedly showing a quarrel inside the women’s section of the shelter.
Video Recorded in January, Says Social Development Department
According to the Social Development Department of NMMC, the video in question was originally recorded in January 2025 by a woman resident of the shelter and had already been brought to the department's attention earlier this year. The incident involved a verbal dispute between two women, both of whom are no longer staying at the shelter.
Security Strengthened After Initial Incident, 22 CCTV Cameras Installed
After receiving the video in January, the Deputy Commissioner of the Social Development Department had conducted an immediate inspection and directed the shelter administration to strengthen security.
Following this, the number of security guards was increased from four to seven, with staff deployed across three shifts. In addition, 22 CCTV cameras were installed on the premises to monitor activities and prevent any untoward incidents. All cameras are reportedly functional.
Woman Who Filmed Video No Longer Resides at Shelter
The woman who had recorded the video—herself a graduate and former resident admitted via the NRI Police Station—had faced complaints for disturbing fellow residents by talking loudly on her phone late at night.
As a precautionary measure, her phone would be collected by security personnel during nighttime hours. She has since apologized for circulating the old video and no longer resides at the shelter.
Civic Body Reaffirms Proper Functioning After Fresh Inspection
The shelter is operated by an organization that employs four staff members, including one manager and three caretakers—two of whom are women. The civic body has firmly denied allegations of any misconduct or mistreatment, stating that beneficiaries consistently express appreciation for the support and shelter provided.
Following the recent reports, the Deputy Commissioner again visited the facility and interacted directly with the current residents. According to officials, beneficiaries confirmed that they are receiving all necessary services without issue.
