The renowned Roshanara club in Delhi, established a century ago, has been closed permanently.

New Delhi’s Roshanara Club Sealed by DDA After Lease Ends

The more than a hundred-year-old Roshanara Club located in North Delhi was sealed by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) on Friday. The club, which has a rich history and is known for its contribution to Indian cricket, was vacated by a team of DDA officials and Delhi Police after its hundred-year lease ended. The club employees also staged a protest against the action.

The DDA had issued notices to vacate the club in April and September 2023, but as the club failed to comply, it was sealed. The General Secretary of the club, Rajan Manchanda, claimed that there were two leases running for the club, which had been renewed every 30 years as per the rules. However, the DDA argued that both leases had expired, one in 2012 and the other in 2017.

Rajan Manchanda expressed his dissatisfaction with the DDA’s action, stating that it was incorrect despite the stay order from the Delhi High Court until October 6. He announced that they would take the matter to the High Court and seek justice. Manchanda also revealed that he had been in constant communication with the Union Ministry of Urban and Housing Affairs and the DDA since the first lease ended in 2012, but no concrete information regarding the club’s future was provided.

The DDA claimed that during the club’s eviction, it was discovered that valuable land had been illegally encroached upon. The club management had allowed encroachment on 3.5 acres of land, which was originally leased for public purposes. The DDA alleged that the club, known for its historical significance and its role in Indian cricket, had become the private property of a few individuals.

Job Crisis Looms Large for Club Employees

Approximately 500 employees are associated with the Roshanara Club, and their livelihoods and families’ well-being depend on the club. The General Secretary stated that the club paid Rs 3 to 4 crore in GST to the government annually, highlighting its financial contribution. The sudden closure of the club has left these employees in a state of crisis and uncertainty.

BCCI’s Connection to Roshanara Club

Roshanara Club holds a significant place in Indian cricket history. The Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) was formed at the club in 1928. In 1931, an unofficial test match between India and England was played at the club, marking the first test match organized there. Several BCCI Ranji matches were scheduled to take place at the club’s cricket ground from October 8, 2023, to January 26, 2024.

Summary:

• The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) sealed the century-old Roshanara Club in North Delhi after its hundred-year lease expired.
• The club employees protested against the eviction.
• The DDA claimed that valuable land had been illegally encroached upon.
• Approximately 500 employees are facing a job crisis due to the club’s closure.
• The Roshanara Club has a significant historical connection to Indian cricket, with the BCCI being formed there in 1928.