The long-disputed Parsi Gymkhana property in Mahabaleshwar is set to reopen after Satara District Collector Santosh Patil ordered its restoration to the Parsi Gymkhana Trust, strictly for its original recreational purpose. The decision, issued on 28^th August, 2025, also prohibits any commercial activities on the 41,200 sq m government-leased land, warning that such use would violate lease terms.

The property (C.S. No. 233), leased for 30 years from 1^st August, 2007, was sealed in June 2024 following allegations that a resort and eight unauthorised tents had come up on the site, violating conditions 15 and 17 of the lease. Authorities also claimed over ₹87.76 lakh in unpaid municipal taxes. Acting on reports from the tehsildar and sub-divisional officer, the administration issued a 24-hour notice, sealing the property on 1^st June, and demolishing the structures on 8^th June.

The trustees challenged the action as “arbitrary and illegal”, citing Supreme Court and Bombay High Court rulings that require due legal process and reasonable time before coercive measures. In his order, Patil agreed that the 24-hour notice breached principles of natural justice and that the demolition before the reply deadline was procedurally unfair.

However, he upheld that the land was used for commercial purposes in violation of the lease. He clarified that any change in land use would require a formal application, payment of a surcharge, and clearances from the heritage and urban planning authorities, as the property is heritage grade II. Directing that the property be reopened but commercial activity cease immediately, Patil stressed that even as lessor, the government “cannot act like a private landlord” and must balance enforcement with administrative fairness.

The decision has drawn mixed reactions, with some activists questioning its effectiveness, but it marks a significant step toward resolving the long-standing dispute over the heritage property’s use.