Jaipur Citizens' Group Protests Alleged Illegal Land Use at Central Park by Golf Club
The Central Park Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, a citizens' advocacy group, formally submitted a memorandum to the district collector and the commissioner of the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) on Thursday. The submission demands immediate action against the alleged illegal use of public land at Central Park by the Rambagh Golf Club.
Allegations of Legal Violations and Court Order Breaches
In its detailed memorandum, the group highlighted that a decision made during a JDA meeting on July 25, 2023, permitted the Rambagh Golf Club to utilize public land at Central Park for parking facilities. The samiti asserts that this authorization blatantly violates existing laws and multiple court orders. They emphasized that Central Park is designated as public land, intended solely for the benefit and use of Jaipur's citizens, and cannot be appropriated for the advantage of a private institution.
Legal Proceedings and Judicial Concerns
Yogesh Yadav, the president of the samiti, pointed out that several legal cases involving the golf club are currently pending before the High Court and the Supreme Court, including public interest litigations. He argued that any administrative decision taken while these matters are sub judice constitutes undue interference in judicial proceedings. "Central Park is a shared public asset of Jaipur's residents. Thousands of people use it daily for recreation and parking. Handing over public land for the benefit of a private club goes against the Constitution and the public interest doctrine," Yadav stated firmly.
Broader Implications for Public Land Use
The group's action underscores growing concerns over the misuse of public spaces in urban areas. They argue that such decisions set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to further encroachments on community assets. The samiti is calling for a thorough investigation and the revocation of the JDA's decision to ensure that Central Park remains accessible and beneficial to all citizens, as originally intended.
