Pune: Hundreds Oppose PCB Demolition Drive at Poona Christian Cemetery
Camp, 18th April 2026: A large protest was held on Friday outside the main gate of the Poona Christian Cemetery near the Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) Fire Brigade office at Dhobi Ghat, as members of the Marathi-speaking Christian community opposed a proposed demolition drive by the PCB.
Nearly a thousand people gathered at the site after the PCB initiated action against what it described as unauthorised structures within the cemetery premises. One of the key structures facing demolition is the Shiloh Marathi Church of Christ, located inside the cemetery complex.
Several political leaders, including Congress corporators Arvind Shinde and Rafique Shaikh, along with Azad Samaj Party Pune president Advocate Tosif Shaikh and members of the Bhim Army, joined the protest. Demonstrators alleged that the proposed action violates religious rights and questioned whether proper legal procedures were followed.
According to PCB officials, the action relates to constructions on land falling under survey numbers 545, 546 and 547. Notices were issued to the church management and the Poona Christian Cemetery Society, informing them of a planned demolition at 11 am on April 17. The PCB administration had also requested police deployment from Swargate police station for the operation.
Tension escalated on Friday morning when a JCB machine was brought to the site by the PCB’s engineering department. However, a large crowd gathered and opposed the move, forcing officials to withdraw the machinery and halt the demolition. After discussions between community representatives, political leaders and PCB authorities, the demolition was temporarily postponed until Monday.
The Shiloh Marathi Church of Christ was built nearly 30 years ago on land owned by the Poona Christian Cemetery Society and can accommodate around 500 worshippers. It serves a significant section of the local Christian community.
The church is located within a 19-acre cemetery that dates back to the British era and contains several historic graves. Parts of the cemetery are reportedly covered with overgrown vegetation, although the site continues to hold religious and historical importance.
Community members said that although the notice was dated March 23, it was received only on April 13, leaving little time to respond. They also expressed concern that the move has created fear among residents.
Speaking at the protest, Arvind Shinde said that any issues related to alleged encroachments should be resolved through legal means.
Advocate Tosif Shaikh raised concerns about the timing and manner of the notice.
Church representatives highlighted their contribution to social work, especially in education and youth support. Pastor Robin Mhadkar said the church has been serving the community for decades and described the demolition notice as unexpected.
Devotees also expressed concern about the future of the church. Padma Lokhande, who has been visiting the church for many years, said it is an important place of worship for the community and should not be demolished.
The PCB has temporarily put the demolition on hold, and further discussions are expected in the coming days.
