HT exclusive: Before retiring, ex-air chief asked govt not to take over IAF’s Sports Complex
Outgoing Indian Air Force Chief AP Singh wrote to the Defence Minister requesting that the IAF retain control of its sports complex near the Prime Minister's residence. The land is currently being reclaimed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, causing friction within defence circles.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights tensions between military operational needs and government urban development policies in high-security zones.
On October 26, days before his October 31 retirement, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh urged defence minister Rajnath Singh to protect the Indian Air Force (IAF)’s control of prime land within the Race Course Air Force Station, near the Prime Minister’s residence, citing operational imperatives and the facilities located there, said a senior official familiar with the matter, requesting anonymity.The letter came against the backdrop of the ministry of housing and urban affairs (MoHUA) reclaiming a sprawling sports complex within the station.
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