As the debate between green activists and those supporting the cutting of trees at the metro car shed site rages, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) in its reply to a letter by fourth-year law student Rishav Ranjan, has denied wrongdoing on its part. Ranjan, in the letter on October 8 had requested the MMRC to stop all construction activities in Aarey until the Supreme Court delivers its verdict.

"If something is disputed, both parties should maintain the status quo. What if tomorrow the SC declares Aarey Colony as an eco-sensitive zone or forest and bars further construction? And orders that the car shed be shifted? The MMRC should respect the fact that the matter is still under litigation," Ranjan said. MMRC, in its reply on October 10, said, "...We deny in entirety the allegations levelled ... We have the highest regard for the Hon'ble Apex Court, and we respect and are abiding by the order ... passed on 7.10.2019, which is unambiguous and self-explanatory."