The Jain agitation marks the latest confrontation between the community and the ruling BJP, its traditional ally, in a series of rows through the year – from the demolition of an old temple and a crackdown on pigeon-feeding to a court-ordered relocation of a temple elephant.

The controversial Pune land deal has escalated tensions between them, especially after allegations have been levelled now against Pune’s BJP MP and Union Minister, Murlidhar Mohol, for his association with the private builder who purchased the trust property.

What is the new conflict?

The current controversy is centred on a 3.5-acre property in Pune’s Model Colony owned by the SHNST. The trust property includes a Jain temple as well as a boarding facility, which was established in 1958 for students from the unde

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