In a significant move that has sent ripples through institutional property management, the Maharashtra government has ordered a massive, statewide audit of lands owned by churches and Christian missionary organizations. This unprecedented scrutiny follows the discovery of an alleged ₹300 crore land fraud in Nashik, where prime ecclesiastical properties were reportedly leased and sold through forged documentation over several decades.

The Catalyst: The Nashik Land Scandal

The investigation in Nashik revealed that approximately six acres of land legally belonging to the Nashik Diocesan Trust Association (NDTA) were being illegally dealt with by another entity, the Nashik Diocesan Council (NDC). Investigators claim that forged ownership records were utilized to facilitate transactions with private parties and even government departments. Interestingly, the Nashik Police itself emerged as a victim, as the department had been paying rent for premises occupied on this disputed land, unaware that the lessors lacked legal title.

Scope of the Statewide Audit

The decision was formalized in the State Assembly following concerns raised by BJP MLA Devyani Pharande. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced that the audit would not merely look at recent transactions but would delve deep into historical records, tracing ownership back to the British era and post-Independence transfers. The government aims to complete this intensive review within a strict three-month timeframe.

Implementation and Legal Implications

To ensure a thorough investigation, the state will establish divisional-level committees led by Divisional Commissioners. These committees will feature high-ranking officials from the Settlement Commissioner’s office, the police department, and the Inspector General of Registration. The objective is to identify encroachments, illegal transfers, and any violations of land laws. While the government has assured legitimate titleholders that they have nothing to fear, it has signaled a zero-tolerance policy toward forgery and illegal land alienation, promising strict legal proceedings where irregularities are detected.