Anil Borade| Bureau North Maharashtra
Dhule: Maharashtra–Gujarat border has become a hub for illegal activities, with Dhule district’s Zakarya Bari and Bandhanghat emerging as hotspots. Gambling dens, matka networks, and underground betting rackets are flourishing here, operating fearlessly despite being in police jurisdiction.
Smuggling of liquor and gutkha from Gujarat into Maharashtra has grown into a multi-crore racket. From these hilly tribal regions, the contraband is supplied across Maharashtra. Locals allege that while the racket runs in full swing, police officials either remain unaware or deliberately turn a blind eye.
The tribal youth in these neglected border villages are the worst affected. Addiction and illegal trade threaten to destroy the young generation. Citizens strongly believe that instead of negligence, the administration should launch education, healthcare, and rehabilitation programs in these regions to secure the community’s future.
Residents have now demanded immediate crackdown on the flourishing border crime syndicates, warning that continued police inaction could worsen the situation. Their call for justice questions whether this is mere neglect—or a case of deliberate silence by authorities.
