India, Aug. 5 -- Tensions are rising in Hinjewadi as local villagers push back against deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar over a proposed road-widening project. Residents claim they are being excluded from critical decisions and have warned of legal action and public protests if their concerns continue to be overlooked. Over the past month, Pawar has conducted two review visits to the area, instructing officials to expedite development in line with the state government's push to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion in the IT hub. During these visits, he ordered changes to road designs and other infrastructure upgrades.

However, the local gram panchayat and residents allege they were not consulted, even though the projects dir...