Delhi High Court Raises Concerns Over Government’s Move to Seize Historic Properties
On Monday, the Delhi High Court expressed its concerns regarding the government’s plan to take over almost 200-year-old properties, including well-known locations like the Delhi Gymkhana Club, the Delhi Race Club, and the Jaipur Polo Grounds. The government justified this action as a step for “public purpose.”
Justice Neena Bansal Krishna highlighted that these historic sites and open spaces are essential for residents of Delhi, a city struggling with pollution. She warned that replacing them with tall buildings could lead to the city becoming unlivable. “What will happen to these heritage buildings? Even the Gymkhana is a part of our history. If you build high-rises, Delhi will suffocate. We only have a little green space left; don’t take that away from us. We are already choking on pollution,” she remarked to the government’s lawyer, Ashish Dixit.
The court’s comments reflected a deep concern for the impact of urban development on the quality of life in Delhi. “If this is how you want Delhi to develop, then God help us,” said the judge. She also questioned the timing of the government’s decision, asking why there was a need to take over these long-standing properties.
The issue arose during a hearing of a petition from the Indian Polo Association (IPA), which challenged an eviction order issued on May 20 under a public premises law. This order called for the removal of occupants from the 15.20-acre Jaipur Polo Grounds by June 4.
The IPA sought to pause the eviction, arguing that the court did not properly consider their request before scheduling a further hearing. In response, Dixit defended the government’s actions, claiming that the acquisition was necessary for public redevelopment and certain defense needs. He noted that no immediate actions would be taken regarding the IPA until the end of the week.
The court concluded the session by directing the Patiala House Courts to review the IPA’s request regarding the eviction notice by June 10.
