Delhi Race Club facilities demolished after Centre takes possession

Bulldozers demolished the Delhi Race Club’s stables, winning post and bookmakers’ ring after the Centre took possession of its 53.24-acre premises, halting racing activity at the club.

The action followed a Patiala House Court decision on Tuesday declining to pause the August 11 eviction order. An estate officer directed the club to vacate after finding that its lease had not been renewed. The Centre says the lease expired on December 31, 1994.

The club has challenged the order, and its main appeal is listed for final disposal on September 26.

The demolition included the photofinish camera and saddling enclosure. The stables had been renovated in the 1940s with ventilation and protection from Delhi’s summer heat in mind.

The club said about 200 horses had been collected by their owners, while nearly 50 remained at the premises. It said it had until September 14 to complete their relocation, with horse floats taking animals to racing centres in other parts of the country.