Maharashtra Government Unveils Ambitious International-Level Plan for Deekshabhoomi Development
The Maharashtra government has officially informed the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court that the proposed redevelopment of Deekshabhoomi, a sacred Buddhist site in Nagpur, will be executed "at an international level on the lines of Singapore and Dubai" through a comprehensive global tender process. This significant announcement came during a hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that seeks a thorough and comprehensive upgradation of the revered location.
PIL Hearing and Government's Detailed Submission
The PIL, filed by lawyer Shailesh Naranaware, is currently being heard by a division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode. Amid ongoing objections and disputes surrounding the ambitious project, the Nagpur District Collector convened a crucial meeting on January 16. This meeting included officials from key agencies such as the Nagpur Improvement Trust, the Nagpur Metropolitan Region Development Authority, and office-bearers of the Deekshabhoomi Memorial Committee.
During this gathering, four distinct development options were presented and discussed, with one option ultimately being finalized for further action. However, the state government clarified to the court that administrative approval and certain technical clearances are still pending, indicating that while plans are advanced, formal go-aheads are yet to be secured.
Ministerial Directives and Global Standards
The government further placed on record a detailed letter from Prasad Kulkarni, the regional deputy commissioner in the social welfare department. This letter referenced a pivotal meeting chaired by the social justice minister on December 11, 2025. In that meeting, the minister issued clear directives for the project, emphasizing that works including beautification, area development, pedestrian pathways, and advanced sound and lighting systems must be carried out to global standards.
To achieve this, proposals are to be invited through an international tender, ensuring that the development aligns with world-class benchmarks. When pressed by the court about specific timelines, the state representatives were unable to provide a definitive date for when administrative approval would be granted, highlighting some procedural uncertainties.
Court's Scrutiny and Directives
The bench expressed concern over the delays, questioning the government's submission that the Model Code of Conduct had stalled the process. The court observed that elections had concluded long ago, making this justification untenable. In response, the court orally directed the state to place detailed and comprehensive information on record by February 3, ensuring transparency and accountability in the planning stages.
During the proceedings, Shailesh Naranware argued the matter in person, while Advocate Girish Kunte appeared on behalf of the Nagpur Metropolitan Region Development Authority and the Nagpur Improvement Trust, representing the implementing agencies involved in the project.
Broader Implications and Future Steps
This development marks a significant step towards transforming Deekshabhoomi into a world-class destination, potentially boosting tourism and cultural significance in Nagpur. The emphasis on international standards reflects a commitment to excellence, though the pending approvals underscore the complexities involved in large-scale public projects. Stakeholders and the public await further updates as the government works to meet the court's deadline and move forward with this ambitious initiative.
