Pimpri-Chinchwad, September 10, 2026: An independent church in Maharashtra’s Pimpri-Chinchwad was demolished during a late-night civic operation, with members alleging that authorities proceeded despite a court stay and shortly before a scheduled hearing.
Church members question timing of demolition
The Jesus Is Lord Church in Rajwade Nagar, Kalewadi, was pulled down in the early hours of September 7, according to reports based on accounts from church members. They alleged that civic officials were informed about a court order and an upcoming hearing but continued with the demolition.
Church members also claimed that they had not received adequate advance notice and were unable to remove furniture, equipment and other belongings before the structure was demolished.
Rose, a church member, alleged that heavy machinery and a large police contingent were deployed at the site. She further claimed that members were prevented from photographing or recording the demolition.
The congregation said the church had been built through contributions from its members, including several from low-income families.
Civic body cites unauthorised construction
The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), however, described the action as part of a wider drive against unauthorised constructions in Rajwade Nagar.
The civic body said around 7,400 square feet of unauthorised structures were demolished during the operation. It said the drive involved its encroachment and engineering departments, police personnel and Maharashtra Security Force staff.
According to the PCMC, heavy equipment, including JCBs and Poclain machines, was deployed during the operation.
However, the civic body’s statement did not specifically address the church members’ claim regarding the alleged stay order or explain whether officials had been informed of the court proceedings before the demolition.
Questions remain over legal process
Church members have sought clarification on the legal basis for the action, the notice issued before the demolition and the decision to proceed ahead of the scheduled hearing.
The competing accounts have left the central legal question unresolved: whether the demolition complied with any court directions in force at the time and with applicable civic procedures.
The incident has since prompted concern among members of the congregation, who are seeking answers from the civic authorities regarding the destruction of their place of worship.