Nagpur High Court Directs Equal Funding for Heritage Building Restoration
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court issued a significant directive on Monday, calling upon both the central government and the Maharashtra state government to consider sharing the costs equally for the repair and restoration of the historic Old High Court building in Nagpur. This decision came after the state's Public Works Department (PWD) confirmed its willingness to undertake the necessary restoration work.
Court's Intervention in Heritage Preservation
Presiding over a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the deteriorating condition of this heritage structure, a bench led by Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Anil Kilor actively sought responses from the state authorities. The court emphasized the urgency of preserving this architectural landmark, which holds significant historical value for the region.
Collaborative Efforts and Regulatory Compliance
In a previous hearing, the bench had instructed the PWD and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a joint meeting and formally record the minutes. Given that the Old High Court building is a protected heritage site, the ASI informed the court that all restoration activities must strictly adhere to its established guidelines and be carried out under its direct supervision. The court accepted this condition, ensuring that the restoration process maintains the building's historical integrity.
Funding and Legal Proceedings
Addressing the critical issue of funding, the court directed the state's counsel to consult with relevant secretaries and present detailed instructions before the bench. This step aims to streamline the financial arrangements and expedite the restoration process. The matter is scheduled for further consideration at the next hearing, where updates on funding and implementation plans are expected.
Legal Representation and Next Steps
During the proceedings, Ashutosh Dharmadhikari served as the amicus curiae, providing impartial legal assistance to the court. Mugdha Chandurkar represented the central government, while Deepak Thakre appeared on behalf of the state government. Their involvement underscores the collaborative legal approach being taken to address this preservation challenge.
The court's proactive stance highlights a growing emphasis on safeguarding India's cultural heritage through judicial oversight and inter-governmental cooperation. As the case progresses, stakeholders await concrete steps towards restoring this iconic structure to its former glory.
