Thane: A massive car rally was held on Sunday from Bhiwandi in Thane district to Jassai village in Navi Mumbai, demanding that the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport be named after late farmer leader D. B. Patil.The rally, which began from the Mankoli area in Bhiwandi, witnessed participation of over 2,500 vehicles and nearly 12,000 people from Thane, Raigad, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Palghar, and Nashik. The demonstration drew significant public attention as supporters lined the route to express solidarity with the long-standing demand.The rally was led by Bhiwandi Lok Sabha MP and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Suresh Mhatre, popularly known as Bhalya Mama. Taking a firm stand, he warned that unless the airport is officially named after D. B. Patil, its inauguration would not be allowed. “In the coming days, I will meet the Chief Minister and the Union Aviation Minister with our demand,” Mhatre told TOI.Patil, a prominent farmer leader, is remembered for championing the rights of project-affected people, particularly during land acquisition struggles in Navi Mumbai. The Agri-Koli community and various social groups have been pressing the demand for several years.Mhatre pointed out that the Maharashtra government had already sent a proposal to the Centre recommending the airport be named after D. B. Patil, but the Union government has delayed the decision. He cautioned that if a “wrong decision” is taken, protests would intensify and the inauguration of the airport could face strong opposition.
