Bulldozers roll into Delhi Race Club; stables razed
Demolition has begun at the historic Delhi Race Club after the Indian government reclaimed the land following a legal dispute over an expired lease. The club has been ordered to vacate the premises, leading to the removal of stables and other facilities.
Why it matters
The event marks the end of a century-old institution and highlights ongoing tensions regarding government land use and urban development in Delhi.
Demolition work began at the century-old Delhi Race Club in Lutyens’ Delhi on Thursday, shortly after the Centre took possession of the 53.24-acre premises and halted racing activities, officials said.
The Land and Development Office (L&DO) took over the property following a Patiala House Court order on Tuesday dismissing the club’s plea seeking an interim stay on the August 11 eviction order passed by an estate officer under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.
Bulldozers demolished several structures at the racecourse, including the stables, bookmakers’ ring, winning post, photofinish camera, and saddling enclosure, a club official said. The club had more than 250 horses, of which around 200 have been taken back by their owners, while about 50 remain at the premises. The club has been given time until September 14 to complete the process of moving the remaining horses, according to officials.
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