Pune Cantonment Board Requests Regularization of Shiloh Church Prayer Hall Amid Protests
Pune Cantonment Board asks Shiloh church to regularise prayer hall after protests
Hindustan Times
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The Pune Cantonment Board has asked Shiloh Marathi Church of Christ in Dhobi Ghat, Pune, to initiate the regularization of its prayer hall, built without prior approval nearly 30 years ago. This request follows protests from the Christian community against a proposed demolition, emphasizing the church's role in social welfare activities.
- 01The Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has requested the Shiloh Marathi Church to regularize its prayer hall.
- 02The church was built nearly 30 years ago without prior approval, leading to a proposed demolition.
- 03Protests from the Christian community halted the demolition, emphasizing the church's social contributions.
- 04PCB officials stated the structure is not classified as encroachment and can be regularized.
- 05Community leaders expressed concerns over the timing and fairness of the PCB's actions.
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The Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has requested the Shiloh Marathi Church of Christ, located within the Poona Christian Cemetery in Dhobi Ghat, Pune, to begin the process of regularizing its prayer hall, which was allegedly built without prior approval nearly 30 years ago. This request follows significant protests from the local Christian community against a proposed demolition drive initiated by the PCB. A delegation led by Pastor Robin Mahadkar and advocate Tosif Shaikh met with PCB CEO Vidyadhar Pawar, submitting a petition for regularization. The church, which serves over 1,000 worshippers and engages in various social welfare activities, has been in peaceful possession of the premises for decades. PCB officials stated that while the construction lacked necessary permissions, it is not classified as encroachment, and there is a provision for regularization. The church has expressed willingness to comply with legal requirements. The situation escalated after a demolition notice was issued, leading to protests that temporarily halted the demolition efforts. Community leaders have raised concerns about the PCB's actions, alleging they infringe on religious rights and natural justice principles.
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The decision on the church's regularization could affect the ongoing social and humanitarian activities it conducts, which are vital for the local community.
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