The controversy surrounding irregularities in the Mundhwa's Botanical Garden land deal triggered a major crackdown by the Pune district administration, exposing widespread misuse of government-leased lands. The issue shook the revenue department and pushed officials into action mode.
Following this, District Collector Jitendra Dudi ordered a detailed investigation into leased lands across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. The probe revealed large-scale violations in nearly 360 cases involving lands allotted for specific purposes such as religious institutions, traditional holdings, tribal use, and government schemes.
During the inquiry, officials found that many leaseholders had violated the terms of allotment. Lands meant for residential use were converted into commercial establishments like shops and malls. In several instances, plots were sub-leased to third parties without government approval.
There were also cases where institutional memberships were altered for personal benefit, while some plots remained unused for years despite being allotted.
Acting on these findings, the administration has already taken possession of 15 such plots and returned them to government control. Additionally, six proposals have been sent to the state government for final decisions, while more than 300 cases are expected to be resolved within the next month.
The crackdown also follows other controversial land dealings, including agricultural department land in Bopodi and animal husbandry land in Tathawade, which had earlier raised serious concerns within the administration.
Officials have made it clear that strict enforcement will continue, and any misuse of government land will invite strong action.