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Historic Gymkhana Land Grab Sparks Protest
2 Feb
Summary
- Protesters demand return of historic gymkhana to college.
- Gymkhana was a rare recreational space for students and locals.
- A government resolution transferred the land in March 2024.
A 115-year-old gymkhana belonging to Wilson College has become the center of a significant protest in Mumbai. Students, residents, and civil society groups voiced their opposition at Azad Maidan, condemning the recent handover of the Marine Lines facility to the Jain International Organisation. Demonstrators are adamant that the historic ground should either revert to college control or be maintained as a vital public open space.
The gymkhana has long been a cherished recreational hub, offering much-needed space for Wilson College students and the local Girgaum community. Students report that sports activities have been displaced to Mumbai University grounds, impacting training and competitions due to cramped campus facilities. The agitation aims to safeguard sports infrastructure, heritage sites, and public open areas within the city.
This dispute escalated following a government resolution issued in March 2024, which officially allocated the gymkhana land to the Jain outfit. The protest highlights ongoing concerns about the preservation of valuable urban spaces and recreational facilities.
