Pune: PCB Halts Demolition of Shiloh Church, Directs Management to Regularise 30-Year-Old Structure

Camp, 20th April 2026: Following massive community protests, the Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has paused the proposed demolition of the Shiloh Marathi Church of Christ at Dhobi Ghat. The authorities have instead directed the church management to initiate the process of regularising the prayer hall, which was allegedly constructed without prior approval nearly three decades ago.

The controversy erupted after the PCB issued a demolition notice on March 23, 2026, citing unauthorized construction. The move sparked widespread demonstrations from the local congregation and community members on April 17. Protesters raised serious concerns over the short notice and lack of due process, warning that they would pursue legal action if the board proceeded with the demolition without granting a fair hearing.

A delegation headed by Pastor Robin Mahadkar, accompanied by Azad Samaj Party Pune president Advocate Tosif Shaikh, met the chief executive officer of the Pune Cantonment Board (PCB), Vidyadhar Pawar, on Monday to submit a request for regularisation of the structure.

Shaikh expressed hope that the board would take an impartial decision. He said they expect the authorities to act fairly and not succumb to external pressure, adding that legal options would be explored if the outcome is unfavourable.

In the official letter, the church highlighted its “peaceful, bona fide and lawful possession” of the property for approximately 30 years. Pastor Mahadkar emphasized that the premises serve as a vital community hub. Beyond spiritual gatherings, the facility is actively used for vital social services, including de-addiction counselling, youth empowerment initiatives, and women and family support programs aimed at helping needy and vulnerable individuals.

PCB officials stated that the application will be reviewed in accordance with existing rules before any decision is made.

CEO Vidyadhar Pawar said the structure, which spans around 10,000 square feet, is located on Class B-1 land. As per the General Land Register (GLR), the Holder of Occupancy Rights (HOR) is listed as the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner. He clarified that while the land is owned by the central government, it falls under the administrative control of the cantonment board, which is empowered to act as per regulations.

Pawar further noted that the prayer hall was constructed without submitting building plans or securing mandatory approvals. He said that although the construction lacks authorisation, it does not fall strictly under encroachment and can be considered for regularisation under applicable provisions. The church authorities have been asked to follow due process by submitting the required application.

He added that the board had issued its first notice regarding the unauthorised structure in 2006, and an appeal filed by the church was rejected in 2014. According to him, the current action follows repeated complaints, and he dismissed allegations of selective targeting.

The situation now appears to be moving toward an amicable legal resolution.

In its official submission, the church management expressed full cooperation with the PCB. They have requested a stay on any demolition activity until documents are thoroughly verified and a joint survey is conducted. Furthermore, the church has officially stated its willingness to take all necessary steps to compound the matter under the law, including the “removal of excess structure if any and if required.”