The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday restrained the Punjab government from taking possession of Ewing Hall, also known as Young Hostel, at Forman Christian College University (FCCU). The court also suspended the implementation of a show-cause notice issued by the Board of Revenue and sought responses from the provincial government and the board.
Court Order
Justice Ahmed Nadeem Arshad announced the order while hearing a petition filed by FCCU Registrar Dr Nayer Firdous. According to the petition, the land occupied by Forman Christian College was originally leased by the Punjab government in 1915, with the lease subsequently extended from time to time. The university currently operates nine hostels, while the 11.5-kanal Ewing Hall facility at Neela Gumbad accommodates 99 students.
Petitioner's Arguments
The petitioner argued that the government had issued a show-cause notice alleging illegal occupation of the hostel land through a member of the Colonies Department of the Board of Revenue. It was contended that under the Land Revenue Act, 1912, only the Collector or Tehsil authorities are authorised to issue such notices, rendering the action unlawful and without jurisdiction. The petition further alleged that the move was mala fide and sought the cancellation of the show-cause notice and related government proceedings.
Concerns Over Heritage
The court's intervention comes amid concerns raised by FCCU alumni, members of the Christian community, and civil society groups over the Punjab government's decision to reclaim Ewing Hall. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also expressed reservations and called for transparent consultations regarding the future of the building, citing its historical significance and association with minority heritage.
Government's Position
According to the Lahore Heritage Area Revival Board (LHAR), Ewing Hall was originally leased in 1915 for use as a student hostel. However, the board said the building has remained vacant since 2015 and is no longer being used for its intended educational purpose. LHAR further stated that more than Rs100 million in unpaid rent had accumulated despite repeated reminders and notices issued to the institution.
The board maintained that the decision to reclaim the property was neither abrupt nor unilateral but the result of a legal process spanning several years. It emphasised that Ewing Hall is an important part of Lahore's heritage and would be restored while preserving its architectural and historical character rather than being demolished.
Heritage Preservation
LHAR also noted that the Walled City of Lahore Authority and the board are actively engaged in conserving and restoring heritage buildings, and that the same approach would be adopted for Ewing Hall. The board assured stakeholders that the building's historical significance and cultural value would be fully respected. It also acknowledged Forman Christian College's educational contributions and the sentiments of the minority community associated with the institution. LHAR stressed that the action regarding Ewing Hall was not intended to target any institution or community but to ensure compliance with the law and safeguard a neglected heritage structure.
