23 March,2010 07:51 AM IST | | Prakash Gosavi
Karnataka HC decision for Bangalore might give Mumbai the chills
In a verdict that would impact the industry, a division bench of the Karnataka High Court on Monday ruled that the Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) had no locus standi to claim continuation of lease for the racecourse land. It must vacate the premises by September 22. It is learnt that the BTC is contemplating filing a Special Leave Petition (SLP) against the High Court order.
The High Court also directed the state government to preserve the racecourse premises as an open space and a mini forest.
Interestingly in Mumbai, the Mahalaxmi racecourse's lease is up for renewal in 2013. With several politicians eyeing South Mumbai's green bowl, the Karnataka verdict may ring alarm bells for the state. Vivek Jain, chairman, Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) says, "This is very damaging as it would have an all India effect in the sense that all racing centers take betting from each other. This would have a ripple effect.
Mumbai, which takes betting from Bangalore, may not be able to do so. Bangalore would have to scout for a location from which to take Mumbai betting. I see this as unfortunate and detrimental for the sport."
Asked whether the ripple effect may stretch to the lease issue, when Mumbai asks for a renewal in 2013, Jain was more optimistic, "I think these are stand alone issues. The Mumbai course is used for so much more than racing. It is used as a genuine open space for walkers and joggers, several equestrian activities like polo and horse riding lessons are conducted here, so the two are not comparable and hope for the best."
With inputs from Hemal Ashar
