The Air Force Sports Complex located on Lok Kalyan Marg, which features a golf course, swimming pool, and dining facilities, has been closed to its members as of Wednesday, according to sources familiar with the situation. This closure is expected to remain in effect until further notice. Members of the complex received notifications regarding the closure on Tuesday, indicating that the facility would not be operational from 5 am on 28 October.

The message sent to members stated, “Greetings of the day! The Complex will remain closed on 28 Oct from 5.00 am till further orders.” The Air Force Sports Complex is situated within the Race Course Air Force Station, which is in close proximity to the Prime Minister’s residence. The sudden closure has raised questions among the members who frequently utilise the amenities.

Government’s Land Reclamation Efforts

Reports suggest that the closure is part of the government’s initiative to reclaim the land that was originally allocated to the Indian Air Force. Allegedly, the government had previously allowed the Air Force to manage the sports complex, but recent communications from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs have indicated a need for the land. A source familiar with the matter stated, “It was government land and so there was no need for any court order. The government officially took over the golf course.”

This development is part of a broader trend, as the Centre has been actively pursuing the reclamation of several high-profile properties in recent months. The sports complex is not an isolated case; it is part of a series of actions aimed at reasserting government control over land that is deemed necessary for public purposes, particularly in relation to defence infrastructure.

On 22 May, the Centre issued a notice to the Delhi Gymkhana Club, instructing it to surrender its premises to the Land and Development Office (L&DO). This action was taken under a public purpose clause included in the original lease agreement. The government justified its decision by stating that the land was required to “strengthen and secure defence infrastructure.” The Delhi Gymkhana Club has since challenged this decision in the Delhi High Court, contesting the termination of its colonial-era perpetual lease.

Other Recent Reclamations by the Centre

The Centre’s efforts to reclaim land have not been limited to the sports complex and the Delhi Gymkhana Club. In a notable case, the government took possession of the Jaipur Polo Ground after a Delhi court declined to grant a stay on its eviction from the 15-acre land parcel. This move has been viewed as part of a larger strategy to regain control over properties that are considered essential for national interests.

As these developments unfold, the implications for various clubs and sports facilities in the capital remain to be seen. The Air Force Sports Complex, with its amenities catering to both serving and retired officials, has been a popular venue. However, the recent actions by the government indicate a shift in priorities, focusing on land reclamation for broader public and defence purposes.

The Air Force spokesperson has not yet provided any comments regarding the closure or the ongoing situation. As the government continues to assert its authority over these properties, members of the sports complex and other affected entities are left awaiting further clarification on the future of their facilities.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share