CPD engages extensively with those living without permanent shelter in Mumbai, many of whom belong to the Pardhi community (categorised as nomadic/denotified tribes) and other socially marginalised groups. They often migrate to the city under duress, distressed by droughts, and escaping caste-based exploitation and poverty. Despite offering essential labour for cleaning sewers, building roads, clearing garbage, and selling goods at traffic signals, they struggle for basic dignity and security.

CPD has worked to facilitate entitlements for them, registering 300+ people as voters. This has enabled them to be political stakeholders whose issues are considered by election candidates. We are taking this initiative further by advocating for access to basic services for these communities, such as housing, water, sanitation, food security, electricity, healthcare, and education.

Documenting issues of homeless communities in Mumbai

As homeless peoples are undocumented, and not considered participants in urban governance, they are subjected to repeated evictions and are portrayed as mentally infirm, thieves and suffering addiction.

Video documentation by CPD of the illegal evictions of homeless communities in Mumbai during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown:

To counter harmful dehumanising narratives about the homeless, CPD works to document their labour contributions to the city’s economy, and their efforts to live a dignified life. This documentation, encompassing the socio-cultural and economic aspects of their lives, has been compiled into a book by the CPD team.

Facilitating entitlements for homeless communities

Every time homeless communities are evicted, their presence in the city is criminalised and they face police detention. By raising awareness among community leaders about their constitutional rights and entitlements, CPD works to facilitate government registered documents for the community members; including voter ID cards, and Public Distribution System cards (ration cards). Such documentation aids engagement with police and city administration, and can be used to stop repeated evictions.