Pune Jain Hostel Land Row: Monk Vows Nationwide Protest Until Deal Is Officially Cancelled
Pune, October 27, 2025: The controversy surrounding the Jain Boarding Trust land deal has deepened, with internal rifts surfacing among the trustees. One of the trustees, Chakor Gandhi, has resigned, alleging pressure and lack of transparency in the decision-making process.
Gandhi stated that his signature was taken without full disclosure of details and that he had consistently opposed the sale of the trust’s land. He submitted his resignation to the Charity Commissioner on October 6, citing moral and ethical objections to the manner in which the transaction was handled.
The land deal had earlier triggered political controversy when former MLA Ravindra Dhangekar accused Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol, claiming the property was purchased by one of Mohol’s close friends. In a recent development, builder Vishal Gokhale, identified as the buyer, has sent an email to the Jain Boarding Trust announcing the cancellation of the deal on moral grounds. Sources say he may soon file an official request to withdraw from the agreement.
Jain monk Acharya Guptanandi Maharaj confirmed that Minister Mohol had personally assured him of requesting Gokhale to withdraw from the transaction. “Vishal Gokhale upheld his friendship and backed out of the deal following Mohol’s request,” Acharya Guptanandi stated.
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Despite the cancellation, the controversy shows no sign of abating. Members of the Jain community, along with NCP and Congress leaders, continue their protests, alleging corruption and irregularities in the handling of temple and hostel properties. Protesters have vowed to continue their agitation until the deal is formally scrapped, with plans for nationwide demonstrations underway.
