Historic Christian University Faces Government Property Seizure in Pakistan

Faith Facts

• Pakistan’s only church-run chartered university is fighting government attempts to repossess a century-old historic hostel building
• Christian leaders, rights advocates, and heritage conservationists have united in widespread criticism of the Punjab government’s actions
• The dispute centers on ownership rights, heritage preservation, and the protection of minority religious institutions in Pakistan

A historic battle is unfolding in Pakistan as the nation’s only church-operated chartered university confronts government efforts to seize control of a 100-year-old hostel building. The conflict has sparked widespread outcry from Christian leaders, human rights advocates, heritage conservationists, and university alumni who see the move as an attack on religious freedom and cultural preservation.

The century-old hostel, which has served generations of Christian students, represents more than just physical infrastructure. It stands as a symbol of Christian educational heritage in a nation where religious minorities face increasing pressure and discrimination.

HRCP is deeply concerned by reports of the forcible takeover of Ewing Hall, a building of historical, educational, and cultural significance in Lahore long associated with @FCCollege. The college authorities allege that they were issued an abrupt deadline by the Punjab government…

— Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) June 13, 2026

I strongly condemn the forcible takeover of Ewing Hall by the Punjab Government, a historic hostel & an integral part of Forman Christian College since 1916
For More than a century, Ewing Hostel has provided thousands of students with a home that has nurtured academic excellence. pic.twitter.com/92V9HoCMON

— Rev. Reuben Qamar (@QamarRev) June 13, 2026

The Punjab government’s attempt to repossess the historic property has drawn sharp criticism from multiple quarters. Christian leaders view the action as part of a broader pattern of encroachment on minority religious institutions, while heritage conservationists warn about the loss of irreplaceable historical architecture.

Alumni of the university have been particularly vocal in their opposition, many citing the hostel’s role in their own educational journeys and spiritual formation. The building has housed countless Christian students over the decades, providing not just accommodation but a safe haven for minority students pursuing higher education.

Following the intense backlash, the Punjab government has publicly stated it will not demolish the historic structure. However, the underlying dispute over ownership and control remains unresolved, leaving the future of the property uncertain.

This controversy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Christian institutions in Pakistan, where the Constitution guarantees religious freedom but minorities often struggle to maintain their properties and educational establishments. The church-run university’s chartered status makes it unique in Pakistan’s higher education landscape, representing a vital resource for the Christian community’s educational and spiritual development.

The outcome of this dispute will likely have far-reaching implications for other Christian institutions in Pakistan and could set precedents for how the government handles minority-owned properties and educational facilities in the future.

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