MITRA was founded in 2004 after an attack on activist Sumaira Abdulali by the politically led sand mafia at Kihim Beach, Alibag.
[1][2][3] After activist and Convenor of Awaaz Foundation Sumaira Abdulali was attacked by the son and employees of a local Alibag politician during a sand mining site visit, a public meeting was held in Mumbai and MITRA was formed under the Chairmanship of Mr. B.G.
A number of prominent NGOs and activists networked for the first time to provide a common platform to fight against vested interests and show solidarity in the face of violence.
Activists under threat or those who were attacked were identified and joint NGO representations made at various levels including to the Government of Maharashtra the Police and the Bombay High Court.
MITRA intervened in the petition and obtained an order for the legal status of ongoing cases of attack or murder of activists pending with the police to be placed before the Court.