JAC Raises Concerns Over Govt Takeover of Historic Ewing Hall

News Desk 

Lahore: The Joint Action Committee for People’s Rights (JAC) has expressed concern over the takeover of Ewing Hall by government authorities, describing the move as a matter requiring dialogue among all stakeholders.

In a statement, JAC said Ewing Hall has been associated with Forman Christian College University (FCCU) since 1916 under a lease agreement that, according to the committee, remains valid until 2048. The building has historically served educational purposes, including accommodation for students of FCCU and King Edward Medical College.

JAC called on the Punjab government to honor its commitments regarding education and heritage preservation and urged authorities to engage with FCCU over the future use of the building.

Located near Nila Gumbad, Ewing Hall was constructed in 1916 and named after former FCC principal Dr. J.C.R. Ewing. The building is regarded as a significant example of Lahore’s educational heritage and architecture. Over the decades, it functioned as a boys’ hostel and housed students from diverse religious, ethnic, and regional backgrounds.

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The committee welcomed public assurances from the Punjab government that the building would be preserved and not demolished. However, it stressed that heritage conservation should not be limited to the physical structure alone but should also consider the educational and social functions historically associated with the site.

According to JAC, FCCU suspended the use of Ewing Hall as a hostel in 2018 due to concerns regarding student safety and subsequently undertook technical assessments and restoration-related engagement. The committee maintained that the temporary suspension of hostel operations should not affect the building’s long-term educational purpose.

JAC urged the provincial government to halt further action regarding the property and initiate transparent consultations with all relevant stakeholders. It also called for cooperation between the government and FCCU to restore and reactivate Ewing Hall as an educational and residential facility while preserving its historical significance.

No official response from the Punjab government or FCCU was immediately available regarding the committee’s statement.