Villagers ‘marooned’ on Wadhiv island between Vaitarna and Safale in Palghar district have unanimously decided to push the NOTA (None of the Above) button in protest against all politicians. Nearly 4,000 people reside in the island’s hamlets of Wadhiv and Vaitypada, which fall under the Boisar Assembly constituency, but apart from a dangerous railway track, there is no connection to the mainland.

Despite mid-day highlighting the villagers’ plight for years, no initiative has been taken to alleviate situation. With the state Assembly election nearing, the demand for connectivity gained momentum and the aggrieved villagers have accused all political parties of ignoring their plight. Women from the village have expressed concern about challenges the community faces, notably the lack of marriage proposals for young and eligible bachelors on the island.