No demolition planned for historic Ewing Hall, says Lahore heritage board

Says repossession of the property by Punjab government outcome of a legal process spanning several years

LAHORE:

Amid an ongoing controversy over the repossession of the historic Ewing Hall in Anarkali in favour of the Punjab government, the Lahore Heritage Area Revival Board (LHAR) on Sunday clarified that there were no plans to demolish the building and that the heritage structure would be preserved and restored in its original form.

Concerns were raised by alumni of Forman Christian College, members of the Christian community, and civil society groups following the decision to reclaim Ewing Hall. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also voiced reservations, calling for transparent consultations regarding the future of the building, which is associated with both historical and minority heritage.

In a clarification issued in response to the concerns, LHAR stated that Ewing Hall was originally leased in 1915 for use as a student hostel. However, the building has remained vacant since 2015 and is no longer being used for its intended educational purpose.

According to the board, unpaid rent owed to the government accumulated to more than Rs100 million despite repeated reminders and notices.

The statement said that the Punjab Board of Revenue formally issued a show-cause notice in March 2026 and provided all relevant stakeholders an opportunity to present their positions.

After hearing submissions from Forman Christian College and the Higher Education Department, the Member Colonies ordered the repossession of the property in favour of the provincial government on April 27.

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LHAR maintained that the decision was neither abrupt nor unilateral, but the outcome of a legal process spanning several years. The board emphasised that Ewing Hall was an important part of Lahore’s historic heritage and would be restored while preserving its architectural and historical identity rather than being demolished.

The statement further noted that the Walled City of Lahore Authority and LHAR are actively engaged in the conservation and restoration of heritage buildings, and the same approach would be adopted for Ewing Hall.

The board assured stakeholders that the building’s historical significance and cultural value would be fully respected.

LHAR also acknowledged the educational contributions of Forman Christian College and the sentiments of the minority community associated with the institution.

It stressed that the action concerning Ewing Hall was not intended to target any institution or community, but rather to ensure compliance with the law and safeguard a neglected heritage structure.

Reaffirming its commitment to dialogue and cooperation with all stakeholders, the board said efforts to preserve the city’s historical heritage would continue in a spirit of openness, mutual respect, and constructive engagement.