President Patil gives up Pune land, no clarity on its future use

New Delhi: President Pratibha Patil on Friday decided to give up her proposed post-retirement accommodation in Pune. Her decision came after allegations by RTI activists that the bungalow was being built on defence land in violation of norms.

After a furore on social media platforms on the excess land allotted to Patil, the President's office announced that she will forego the land.

The defence plot in Khadkee hit controversy after RTI activists and an NGO called 'Justice for Jawans' unearthed violations in the allotment.

President Pratibha Patil\'s decision came after allegations that the bungalow was being built on defence land in violation of norms.

RTI queries indicated a change in land reservation policy, illegal demolition of existing buildings and hacking of several trees. The NGO had also pointed out that the living condition of the families of jawans was deplorable.

The president's office, denying all allegations, had said that the land would always remain with the government.

While construction will now be stalled, there is no clarity yet on what will be done with the plot. The President's office also did not divulge if she had chosen a new place for her retirement home.

Also See

• 'Pained' at row, President Pratibha Patil gives up proposed Pune accommodation

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