Pune Youth Congress Opposes Construction On BMCC Ground, Threatens Mass Protest
Pune Youth Congress Opposes Construction On BMCC Ground, Threatens Mass Protest
Pune – A plan is underway to construct a new engineering college building of 60,000 sq. ft. on the historic and green playing field located at the heart of Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC). This construction is being proposed by DES Private University and its affiliated institutions. Despite other vacant spaces being available on campus, the project is being planned on the playground itself, raising sharp opposition from the Youth Congress.
They have condemned the move, claiming it to be an environmental assault and destruction of a green space under the guise of education. The Bhoomipujan (foundation stone laying ceremony) is scheduled for May 22, 2025. Youth Congress has warned that if the ceremony is not stopped, they will have no option but to launch a public agitation.
For over 80 years, this ground has shaped thousands of students at national and international levels. Local citizens also use it for health and fitness. It is reported that around 25% of the ground area and over 100 old trees will be destroyed for this construction.
Today, the Maharashtra Pradesh Youth Congress submitted a strong letter of protest to the BMCC management.
Present on the occasion were Akshay Jain, President of the State Media Department, former Student Congress President Bhushan Ranabhare, Youth Congress State Secretary Anand Dubey, Meghshyam Dharmavat, along with Saddam Shaikh, Abhijit Haldekar, Raj Jadhav, Akshay Kamble, Rakesh Jagtap, and others.
Youth Congress put forth three clear demands:
1. Immediate cancellation of the Bhoomipujan.
2. A written assurance that no construction will be carried out on the ground.
3. A clear policy declaration that no environment-damaging project will be implemented within the BMCC campus.
Akshay Jain, President of the Youth Congress Spokesperson, stated:
“When so much space is available on this vast campus, why build a 60,000 sq. ft. structure on the playground? This is a ground, not a mall to be carved up as one pleases! If this unjust encroachment isn’t stopped, the Youth Congress along with alumni will launch a mass movement. We are ready to pay any price to protect the ground, the students, and the environment.”
