The Maharashtra government has ordered a time‑bound audit of land parcels owned by churches, Christian missionary organisations and related institutions across the state. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule unveiled the decision in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, pledging that the exercise will be wrapped up within three months and that any irregularities will be met with decisive action.

Purpose and Scope of the Audit

Bawankule explained that the audit aims to identify illegal encroachments, disputed titles and ownership anomalies. Properties held by missionary bodies since the British era as well as those transferred after independence will be scrutinised to ensure full compliance with existing land laws.

High‑Powered Committee Structure

The verification will be carried out by a high‑powered committee chaired by the respective divisional commissioner. The panel will include senior officials from the Settlement Commissioner’s office, representatives from the police department and the Inspector General of Registration, tasked with a thorough review of land deeds, 7/12 extracts and other revenue records.

Historical Context and Current Sensitivities

Christian missionary institutions have owned land in India since the colonial period, when numerous churches, schools and hospitals were granted estates by the British administration. Post‑independence, many of these holdings continued, but questions over title legitimacy have periodically resurfaced. Recent allegations of intimidation against Christian prayer gatherings by right‑wing groups in Maharashtra have heightened public scrutiny, prompting the government to demonstrate transparency.

Regulatory Impact and Potential Outcomes

Should the audit uncover violations, the state will initiate legal proceedings and may reclaim the disputed parcels. Conversely, entities with legally valid titles are assured no adverse action. The move is expected to streamline land administration, curb unlawful encroachments and restore investor confidence in the state’s property regime.

New Rules for Agricultural Land Transactions

Alongside the audit, Bawankule announced stricter controls on agricultural land sales. Only verified farmers will be permitted to purchase such land, and they must furnish proof of agricultural status, such as revenue records and a 7/12 extract. This measure aims to prevent speculative buying and protect genuine cultivators.

The announcement follows a recent meeting in Mumbai where several Christian groups appealed to the Police Commissioner for protection against alleged intimidation at prayer meetings. In that context, the government’s initiative seeks to balance communal harmony with legal rigor, reinforcing the rule of law while addressing community concerns.