Pune: Chhota Sheikh Salla Dargah Trustees and PMC Reach Agreement to Resolve Unauthorized Construction Dispute

Pune, 9th March 2024: Following a night of tension sparked by rumors of impending demolitions at Chhota Sheikh Salla Dargah in Kasba Peth, a crucial meeting was convened at the Police Commissioner’s office today.

The gathering included Pune Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar, Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, BJP spokesperson Ali Daruwala, and representatives from various organizations. The focus of the meeting was to address the concerns surrounding unauthorized constructions at the Dargah.

The outcome of the meeting was a consensus between the Dargah trustees and officials, culminating in a signed letter outlining the terms for resolving the construction dispute:

1. Preservation of Heritage: The trustees pledged that no damage would be inflicted on any structure within Chhota Sheikh Salla Dargah during the operation. Specifically, the historic mosque gazetted in 1927 would remain untouched.

2. Removal of Unauthorized Extension: The unauthorized extension of the new Masjid building, subject to a stop-work notice issued by PMC on March 30, 2019, will be promptly removed by the Trust.

3. Compensation for Damages: In the event of future court proceedings favoring the Dargah Trust, the administration committed to compensating for any damages incurred during the current dispute.

4. Consideration of Future Applications: The administration will positively consider applications for construction permissions received in the future from the Dargah Trust.

5. Assistance for Renovation: If requested by the Trustee, the Municipal Administration, through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), will extend all possible assistance for the lawful renovation of the existing structure.

“This agreement marks a significant step towards an amicable resolution, ensuring the preservation of heritage while addressing concerns related to unauthorized constructions. The joint commitment from both the Dargah Trust and PMC reflects a collaborative effort to maintain harmony and uphold legal principles in this matter”, said Daruwala.