“We Will Choke and Die”: Delhi High Court Slams Centre’s Plan to Take Over Green Spaces at Delhi Gymkhana & Polo Grounds
Court Raises Alarm Over Shrinking Green Cover, Questions Future of Heritage Properties in Lutyens’ Delhi
In a strongly worded hearing, the Delhi High Court expressed serious concern over the Central government’s proposed takeover of land occupied by the Delhi Gymkhana Club and the Indian Polo Association’s Polo Grounds, warning that continued loss of green spaces could make the national capital increasingly unlivable. Delhi High Court Delhi Gymkhana Club Indian Polo Association
“Delhi Will Choke”
While hearing a petition challenging an eviction notice issued to the Indian Polo Association, Justice Neena Bansal Krishna made sharp observations about Delhi’s environmental condition, stating that the city is already struggling with pollution and diminishing open spaces. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna
The court remarked:
“Delhi will choke. God save us all if this is how you want Delhi to live.”
It further observed that the limited “breathing space” remaining in the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) area is also at risk, warning that “all of us are going to suffocate and die” if such green areas disappear.
What Is the Dispute About?
The case arose after the Indian Polo Association received an eviction notice concerning the approximately 15.2-acre Jaipur Polo Ground located in the Race Course area opposite the Prime Minister’s official residence.
The Association has challenged the eviction order and sought interim protection while its appeal is pending before the appropriate forum under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.
Court Questions Future Development Plans
During the hearing, the court questioned what the government intends to do with these properties and their heritage structures, asking whether the plan is to construct high-rise buildings.
The judge reportedly observed that the government had not found it necessary to reclaim the land for decades and questioned why such action was now required, especially when Delhi faces severe environmental challenges.
Centre’s Stand
The Central government defended the proposed takeover, arguing that the land is required for public purposes, including strengthening defence infrastructure and other vital security needs. Government counsel submitted that central Delhi has limited available land while essential governmental functions must continue to operate from the area.
Environmental Significance
The court’s remarks highlight a broader policy debate between:
- Urban development and security requirements,
- Preservation of heritage properties,
- Protection of scarce urban green spaces,
- Environmental sustainability in one of the world’s most polluted capitals.
Environmental experts have long emphasized that parks and open grounds play an important role in mitigating heat, improving air quality, and maintaining ecological balance in densely populated cities.
Rather than deciding the merits of the eviction dispute, the Delhi High Court disposed of the petition and directed that the competent trial court consider the Indian Polo Association’s request for interim relief. The underlying legal challenge regarding the eviction will therefore continue before the appropriate forum.
