The Indian Polo Association (IPA) is currently embroiled in a legal battle against an eviction notice served by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for the renowned Jaipur Polo Ground in Delhi. This move follows similar government actions concerning other legacy properties like the Delhi Gymkhana Club and Delhi Race Club.
Government Cites 'Larger Public Purpose'
The eviction order, issued by an estate officer under the Ministry, states the land is required for a “larger public purpose and benefit” but does not specify the exact nature of this purpose. The government contends that the lease for the prime land parcel, which the IPA occupies, expired in 1993, rendering the association an illegal occupant since then.
The land, located near the Prime Minister’s official residence, has a rich history. According to the IPA, it was gifted by the Maharaja of Jaipur to the Delhi Polo Club around 1930 and subsequently leased by the Central Public Works Department in 1951 for a 20-year term.
IPA Challenges Eviction in High Court
The Indian Polo Association has vehemently opposed the eviction, arguing that the lease was extended multiple times. They claim an extension in 1971 until 1982, and again in 1983 until March 1993. Following the dissolution of the Delhi Polo Club in 1983, the premises were allotted to the IPA. Since 1984, the association has paid an annual ground rent of Rs 400 per acre, totaling approximately Rs 6,080 per year.
In a significant move, the IPA paid Rs 30,400 in April 2025, covering ground rent for five years until March 31, 2030, which they present as evidence of the government's implied lease renewal. The association also points to instances of temporary regularisation, including a 2005 demand for Rs 2.53 lakh that covered damages.
The dispute briefly resurfaced in 2017 with government allegations of illegal occupation but was later settled. However, on March 12 this year, the government issued a fresh eviction notice. The IPA responded by approaching the Delhi High Court and invoking arbitration. Despite ongoing arbitration, the government issued a show-cause notice on April 17, again labeling the IPA as an unauthorised occupant, followed by the eviction order on May 20. The IPA asserts that this order was passed without a fair hearing.
Polo Ground's Significance and Upcoming Events
The IPA argues that the Jaipur Polo Ground is one of the few remaining large green spaces in the area, serving as a vital ecological and recreational asset for the city. Its records show the association sought lease renewal from the Land and Development Office in 2022.
The ground boasts a long history of hosting significant national and international equestrian and polo events, including:
- Asian Games equestrian events
- IPA National Polo Championship
- Indian Masters Trophy
- Baroda Cup
- Northern India Polo Championship
- Cavalry Gold Cup
- D'Monde Cup
- Col Girdhari Singh Memorial Cup
- Junior National Polo Championship
Historical records even mention a 1922 polo match between Jodhpur and Patiala that attracted 1,50,000 spectators. The venue is also crucial for the Delhi Horse Show and extensive horse training activities. The association highlights that the eviction order comes just before several major events scheduled at the venue, raising concerns about their future.