The controversy surrounding Ewing Hall in Lahore has intensified after concerns emerged about its future, while authorities have firmly denied claims that the historic building near Neela Gumbad will be demolished following its repossession.
Moreover, the dispute has drawn attention from heritage activists, alumni, and educational stakeholders who are closely watching developments related to the century-old structure and its institutional history.
Government Body Denies Demolition Plans
The Lahore Heritage Areas Revival Board has clarified that Ewing Hall will not be demolished, and instead emphasized that the building will be preserved and restored under heritage protection guidelines.
In addition, officials stated that the action taken regarding the property is linked to legal and administrative matters rather than any intent to damage or erase its historical value.
FCCU Raises Concerns Over Rent and Control Period
Forman Christian College University has raised objections over what it describes as an unfair demand for rent covering the period from 1975 to 2003, when the institution was nationalised and under government control.
Furthermore, the university maintains that it has already responded appropriately to official notices and has questioned the justification behind retrospective financial claims for that duration.
Background of Lease and Legal Proceedings
The dispute gained momentum after the government repossessed Ewing Hall, with officials arguing that the lease had expired long ago and that outstanding dues had accumulated over time despite repeated notices.
According to the heritage board, the building was originally leased in 1915 for use as a student hostel and later remained unused for its intended educational purpose since 2015, which contributed to the current legal review.
Moreover, the board stated that approximately Rs107 million in unpaid rent remained outstanding, and this issue was examined through formal legal procedures involving all concerned parties.
Legal Process and Government Decision
Authorities explained that a show-cause notice was issued in March 2026, allowing all stakeholders to present their position before the final hearing process.
After detailed proceedings involving FCCU representatives and the Higher Education Department, an order was issued on April 27, 2026, resuming control of the land in favour of the government.
However, officials reiterated that the decision was administrative in nature and not intended to target any specific institution or community.
Preservation Assurance for Ewing Hall
The Lahore Heritage Areas Revival Board has strongly assured that Ewing Hall will not be demolished under any circumstances, and it will instead be restored as part of heritage conservation efforts.
Moreover, the board highlighted that both the LHAR and the Walled City of Lahore Authority are mandated to preserve historic structures and restore them to their original architectural form where possible.
Additionally, the statement emphasized respect for Forman Christian College’s long legacy and acknowledged the institution’s historical role in education and community development.
FCCU Calls for Cooperative Resolution
In its response, FCCU questioned the rationale behind charging rent for the nationalisation period, while also raising concerns about the intended use classification of the property and whether it should be treated as commercial.
Furthermore, the university clarified that the building had remained in limited use as a hostel until COVID-19, after which structural concerns led to its temporary evacuation for safety reasons.
The institution also noted that a detailed structural assessment was conducted at a cost of Rs5 million, and it is now seeking renovation approval to restore the building for future hostel use.
Conclusion
The Ewing Hall dispute continues to evolve as legal, administrative, and heritage preservation concerns intersect in Lahore, while authorities insist on restoration rather than demolition and stakeholders continue to seek a balanced resolution.
