The complex, which includes a golf course, was closed on October 28 until further orders. Members had been informed of the closure through a message from the Air Force Sports Complex administration on October 26.
Before the takeover, a survey of the land was conducted. The Indian Air Force had also requested the government to reconsider its decision, stating that the move could affect the morale of personnel who regularly trained at the facility. However, the handover was completed despite the request.
The takeover is part of a wider exercise by the L&DO involving properties in the area surrounding the Prime Minister’s residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. Other properties affected include the Delhi Gymkhana Club, Delhi Race Club and Jaipur Polo Ground.
The L&DO had terminated the Delhi Gymkhana Club’s lease on May 22 and issued an eviction notice on June 29. It cited the requirement of land for critical defence infrastructure, urgent institutional needs, governance infrastructure and public-interest projects, along with the resumption of adjoining government land.
