Pune: PMC Withdraws Proposal for Muslim Burial Ground in Kondhwa Amenity Space

Kondhwa, 30th December 2023: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to cancel the proposal to build a burial ground for Muslims in the amenity space at Survey No. 44 in Kondhwa. The proposal faced opposition from citizens who expressed concerns about having a burial ground in a populated settlement.

The amenity space, covering an area of 5128 square meters, was initially earmarked for the burial ground. However, the location’s proximity to residential societies, with around 15,000 residents, led to objections from the local community. The amenity space also serves as a play area for children, and the PMC had allocated funds for a football ground there.

Shiv Sena city chief Nana Bhangire, BJP city president Dhiraj Ghate, and former MLA Yogesh Tilekar, had opposed the proposal, highlighting legal constraints against establishing a burial ground in a residential area. A complaint was filed with the PMC in this regard.

Responding to the objections, the PMC administration decided to withdraw the proposal, acknowledging the concerns raised by citizens and local representatives.

Bhangire commented, “The then corporator and office-bearers decided to build a burial ground on the site of the stadium. But after the facts came to light, the municipal commissioner has cancelled this proposal.”