Pune: Jain Community Protests Proposed Sale Of HND Hostel Land

The Seth Hirachand Nemchand Digambar Jain Hostel, located in Pune's Model Colony has been a pillar of educational support for Jain students across the country for the past 65 years. However, the institution is now caught in a major controversy after the trust proposed to sell its 3-acre land parcel to a builder. The decision has sparked anger and discontent within the Jain community. As the trust is registered under the Charity Commissioner, there is a strong demand for intervention from the Charity Department. The students and alumni of the hostel criticise the move, saying it is a threat to the interests of the community.

Established in 1960, this hostel has provided accommodation, education, cultural, and overall development support to thousands of students. "Numerous officers, doctors, engineers, chartered accountants, and entrepreneurs have been nurtured here. The sale of this institution’s land is seen as a betrayal of its core objectives," expressed one of the students.

Speaking to The Free Press Journal, a student on the condition of anonymity said, "Why is the land being handed over to builders? The lack of transparency and the quick sale process have created a discontent. With possibilities of developing the institution through the participation of philanthropists and alumni, why is land sale being considered?"

Akshay Jain, President, Youth Congress, said, "HND Jain Hostel is not just a building; it is a symbol of generational pride and the educational progress of the Jain community. Instead of selling the land, the holistic development of the institution to benefit more students is true service to society. We will not tolerate any decision that disregards the sentiments of the Jain community. If required, we will take to the streets."

Community members have submitted a memorandum to the Charity Commissioner, demanding immediate cancellation of the land sale. They have also requested the appointment of an independent inquiry committee to safeguard the institution’s original objectives.

The Jain students have placed the following demands before the trust:

1. Increase the hostel's capacity to accommodate at least 500 students (250 boys and 250 girls).

2. Proper reconstruction of the Jain temple on the premises.

3. Hostel admissions remain reserved exclusively for Jain community students.

4. Ensure transparency in any sale or redevelopment process and involve the community members in decision-making.

Meanwhile, The Free Press Journal tried to contact the trustee of the HND Jain Hostel, Chakor Gandhi, but didn't get any response.