NEW DELHI: The Land & Development Office (L&DO) under the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry took possession of the 15.20-acre Jaipur Polo Ground in Delhi's Race Course area on Saturday.
Eviction Order and Legal Challenge
This action follows an eviction order issued on May 20, through which the L&DO sought possession of the land. The department cited a requirement for a larger public purpose without specifying the exact use of the newly acquired land.
On June 8, the Delhi High Court directed a district court to consider a plea by the Indian Polo Association (IPA) seeking a stay on the eviction notice. However, the district court declined to grant any interim relief against the eviction order, as reported by news agency PTI.
Terming the eviction wrongful, arbitrary, and contrary to law, the IPA stated it would exhaust all available legal remedies to protect its rights and interests.
Other Clubs Affected
The L&DO has also issued eviction orders to the Race Course Club and the Gymkhana Club, stating that their premises are required for a larger public purpose.
However, on May 26, the High Court recorded the Centre's submission that it would not take forcible possession of the Gymkhana Club by June 5. The court further noted that no interim order was required at that stage.
Justice Avneesh Jhingan declined to interfere with the Centre's decision to terminate the perpetual lease of the club's 27.3-acre plot in Lutyens' Delhi and scheduled the matter for hearing at the end of July, according to PTI.
These proceedings have provided Gymkhana members with a reprieve until then, when the Centre is expected to file its response and the petitioner its rejoinder.
(With agency inputs)
