Maharashtra Charity Commissioner Revokes Sale of Jain Trust Property to Developer
The Maharashtra charity commissioner has ordered the cancellation of a controversial sale deed, revoking the sale of a prime Jain trust property in Pune to a developer amid community protests.
Jain TrustProperty SaleCharity CommissionerGokhale Landmarks LlpShnstReal Estate MaharashtraOct 30, 2025
The charity commissioner revoked its April 2025 order allowing SHNST to enter into an agreement with Gokhale Landmarks. The order stated, “Gokhale Landmarks LLP and Trustees of SHNST shall take appropriate steps and measures for the cancellation of the sale deed and power of attorney dated October 10, 2025. These measures shall be taken at the earliest. Upon cancellation of the sale deed, the trustees should refund the entire amount of sale consideration to Gokhale Landmarks.”
The property, acquired by Pune-based Gokhale Landmarks LLP earlier this year for Rs 311 crore from SHNST, saw a sum of Rs 230 crore paid upfront, with the remaining amount allocated for the redevelopment of the hostel. The charity commissioner had, last week, ordered a status quo on the transaction, halting any further proceedings.
Members of the Jain community had held protests in Pune and other cities in Maharashtra, accusing the trustees of favoring the developer and violating norms governing charitable land. The controversy took a political turn when former MLA and Shiv Sena leader Ravindra Dhangekar alleged the involvement of Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol in the transaction, a charge vehemently denied by the latter.
The cancellation of the sale deed marks a significant victory for the Jain community, who have been vocal in their opposition to the transaction. The community had argued that the sale of the property would lead to the loss of a significant religious and cultural landmark. The charity commissioner’s decision is expected to bring a sense of relief and justice to the community, ensuring that the property remains under the trust’s control and continues to serve its intended purpose.
The decision by the charity commissioner also highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of charitable properties. It sends a clear message that any attempt to misuse or misappropriate such properties will be met with strict legal action. The community and the trust’s trustees are now expected to work together to ensure the property’s future is secure and that it continues to serve the needs of the Jain community in Pune.
The controversy surrounding the sale of the property has also brought attention to the broader issues of land management and the responsibilities of trustees in charitable organizations. It underscores the need for robust regulations and oversight to prevent such disputes in the future. The charity commissioner’s decision is a step in the right direction, ensuring that the interests of the community are protected and that charitable properties are managed in the best possible manner.
In the coming days, the focus will be on the implementation of the commissioner’s order and the steps taken by Gokhale Landmarks LLP and the trustees of SHNST to cancel the sale deed and refund the sale consideration. The community and the trust’s trustees are expected to work closely with the charity commissioner to ensure a smooth and transparent process. The resolution of this issue is a testament to the power of community action and the importance of upholding the integrity of charitable organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main reason for the cancellation of the sale deed?
The main reason for the cancellation of the sale deed is the intense protests from the Jain community and the charity commissioner's decision to revoke the April 2025 order allowing the sale of the property.
Who are the parties involved in the sale of the Jain trust property?
The parties involved in the sale of the Jain trust property are the construction firm Gokhale Landmarks LLP and the Seth Hirachand Nemchand Digambar Smarak Trust (SHNST).
What was the amount of the sale consideration for the property?
The sale consideration for the property was Rs 311 crore, with Rs 230 crore paid upfront and the remaining amount allocated for the redevelopment of the hostel.
What was the community's reaction to the sale of the property?
The community, particularly the Jain community, held protests in Pune and other cities in Maharashtra, accusing the trustees of favoring the developer and violating norms governing charitable land.
What is the expected next step after the cancellation of the sale deed?
The expected next step is for Gokhale Landmarks LLP and the trustees of SHNST to take appropriate measures to cancel the sale deed and power of attorney, and for the trustees to refund the entire amount of sale consideration to Gokhale Landmarks.
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