Bulldozers Raze Key Facilities at Delhi Race Club Following Court Order

Bulldozers moved into the Delhi Race Club on Thursday, demolishing several historic structures across the century-old institution shortly after the central government took possession of its 53-acre premises.

The action effectively brought horse racing operations at the club to an abrupt halt. The demolition was carried out following a Patiala House Court order on Tuesday that dismissed the club's plea seeking an interim stay against an August 11 eviction order. The eviction notice had been issued by an estate officer under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act.

Key racing infrastructure was torn down during the drive, including the stables, bookmakers' ring, winning post, photofinish camera, and saddling enclosure. A club official confirmed that these facilities had long served as the core infrastructure for racing events at the venue.

A source associated with the club described the demolition as a deeply disturbing development for individuals connected to the institution and the sport.

The Delhi Race Club previously housed more than 250 horses. According to club officials, approximately 200 horses have already been collected by their respective owners, while nearly 50 horses remain on site.

The club has been given until September 14 to complete remaining formalities. Officials noted that plans are underway to transport the remaining horses back to their owners within the next one to two weeks.