The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a stop-work notice to the trustees of the 170-year-old Magen David Synagogue in Byculla, Mumbai. Restaurateur Moshe Shek filed a complaint about unauthorised demolition work on the premises. The civic body responded swiftly, inspected the site, and discovered ongoing structural changes that the Heritage Conservation Committee and the building proposal department had not sanctioned. The authorities have halted the work to prevent further damage to the heritage structure.
Unauthorised Demolition At Magen David Synagogue Sparks Outrage
The Magen David Synagogue, one of Mumbai’s oldest Jewish places of worship, became the centre of controversy after Shek noticed demolition work during a visit on 18 May. He reported structural changes, including the removal of the women’s gallery and central pillars. Upon realising that no approval had been granted for such work, Shek submitted a complaint to the BMC.
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According to Mid-Day, the civic body acted promptly and issued a notice under Section 354A of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. This section empowers the BMC to stop unauthorised construction or demolition that may risk public safety or heritage preservation.
BMC Takes Swift Action To Preserve Heritage Site
Following the complaint, the BMC’s building and factory department visited the site. The officials verified that the synagogue’s trustees had not received permission for the demolition or alterations. As reported by The Indian Express, they delivered a stop-work notice to the trustees and ordered them to halt all construction activity immediately.
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Officials emphasised that all work on listed heritage structures must receive prior approval from the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC). Since the synagogue is a Grade II-B heritage structure, even minor repairs must follow legal and preservation protocols.
Synagogue Trust Claims Urgent Repairs Were Needed
As per the Times of India, the Sir Jacob Sassoon Charity Trust, which manages the synagogue, claimed the structural work was necessary to prevent monsoon-related damage. They stated that a full-scale restoration, estimated at ₹9.7 crore, was financially unfeasible. Instead, they initiated basic strengthening work without waiting for formal approvals, a move that has now come under civic scrutiny.
Magen David Synagogue Remains A Cultural Landmark
Located in Byculla, the Magen David Synagogue was built in 1864 and remains one of the most significant Jewish landmarks in Mumbai. The incident has raised concerns about the protection of heritage structures, especially as urban development and repair needs challenge preservation efforts.
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The BMC’s intervention highlights the importance of safeguarding architectural history while ensuring that legal and procedural norms are followed. The case also reinforces the role of vigilant citizens in preserving Mumbai’s cultural heritage.
Cover Image Courtesy: Moshe Shek/Facebook