Pune Cantonment Issues Raised With Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Assurances Given On Swift Action
Pune Cantonment Issues Raised With Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Assurances Given On Swift Action
Pune, March 19, 2026: A delegation of local leaders met Rajnath Singh to raise long-pending civic and administrative issues affecting residents under the Pune Cantonment Board. The meeting aimed at seeking immediate intervention and policy-level solutions for the area’s ongoing challenges.
The delegation comprised former corporator Dilip Giramkar, BJP Pune Cantonment Senior Vice President Vinayak Katkar, Vice President Shashi Puram, and Secretary Vishal Ovhal led by Pune Rajya Sabha MP Medha Kulkarni. During the discussion, Singh assured that the central government would take a constructive stand and coordinate with concerned departments to address the issues.
Among the main demands was an increase in the Floor Space Index (FSI) to a minimum of 2.5, a move expected to ease redevelopment and construction constraints in the cantonment area. The delegation also pushed for effective implementation of welfare schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, to ensure benefits reach eligible residents, especially the urban poor.
The representatives further demanded the release of nearly ₹1,000 crore in pending GST compensation, stating that the funds would significantly boost stalled development works. They also highlighted the need for immediate clearance of pending employee dues, including salaries, pensions, gratuity, and Seventh Pay Commission installments, which have remained unpaid since 2019.
In addition, several land-related concerns were brought to the minister’s notice. These included complications in inheritance transfers, alleged illegal classification of leased properties as Waqf land, prevalence of subletting, and unauthorized constructions. Issues such as delays in permissions for school infrastructure and difficulties faced by residents in carrying out basic home repairs were also highlighted.
Taking note of the concerns, Singh assured the delegation that the matter would be pursued with relevant officials on priority to facilitate timely resolution and improve overall governance in the cantonment area.
