India, Dec. 7 -- A recent spike in crime has intensified the long-standing demands for a separate police station in Diva. Despite having a population of over 500,000, the area continues to be served only by a small police chowki under the Mumbra Police Station, staffed with just seven police officers.

The issue gained renewed urgency this week after a 20-year-old was stabbed to death by a group of youngsters in the crowded Diva market on Monday over a year-old dispute. The murder has strengthened calls for a full-fledged police station to improve law enforcement and emergency response.

Although the government sanctioned a police station for Diva a few years ago, its construction has been stalled due to the lack of suitable government la...