The Maharashtra government on Saturday decided to put the existing draft of the proposed Maharashtra Devasthan Inam Abolition Act, 2026 on hold and constituted a high-level committee to prepare a revised version of the law. The decision was announced in Nagpur by revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who cited a series of objections and confusion over the legislation.
Committee Formation and Timeline
The committee, headed by additional chief secretary (revenue) Vikas Kharge, will examine all objections and suggestions received so far and submit a fresh draft by August 15. The revised draft will then be placed again in the public domain, with citizens allowed to submit objections and suggestions until September 15.
Bawankule stated that the intention is to bring a strong legal framework that safeguards Devasthan lands and protects the rights of temple trusts. He added that the government is also considering provisions similar to laws used for protection and encroachment removal on Waqf Board properties.
Extent of Encroachment
Nearly 5.5 lakh hectares of Devasthan Inam land exist in the state, many of which have allegedly been encroached upon by influential individuals over the years. According to the minister, several temple trusts have been unable to reclaim such lands due to legal and administrative hurdles.
The draft legislation was initially published for public feedback between May 6 and June 5. However, following large-scale objections and concerns raised by different sections of society, the government decided to temporarily halt the process and revisit the proposed provisions.
Safeguards and Balanced Framework
The government indicated that safeguards may be incorporated for cases involving lands cultivated for generations or properties entangled in long-standing legal disputes. Bawankule said the revised law would attempt to create a balanced framework addressing the interests of both Devasthan authorities and occupants with historical claims.
Committee Members
The newly formed committee includes divisional commissioners of Pune and Konkan, collectors of Thane and Ahilyanagar districts, Joint Secretary Manisha Jaybhaye and other senior revenue department officials. Fifteen representatives from religious shrines across the state will also be included in the panel. Joint Secretary Kailas Arjun Gaikwad will function as the member secretary.
The minister said the final draft, after incorporating public feedback, is expected to be tabled during the winter session of the state legislature in December.
