After a legal setback, Rajasthan is taking steps to protect the iconic Bikaner House in Delhi. A Delhi court had issued an attachment order on the heritage property in favor of Enviro Infra Engineers Pvt Ltd, citing a recovery amount of Rs. 50 crore. The state government is now exploring measures to retain the historic site. Bikaner House holds significant cultural and architectural value, making its preservation a priority.
The Rajasthan government quickly moved to protect its heritage property, Bikaner House, located in New Delhi, from being seized following a court’s attachment order.
The state appointed a senior government lawyer to represent its interests and seek a stay on the order.
Bikaner House, which is within walking distance of India Gate, was built by the Bikaner royals in 1929, showcasing a blend of art deco and colonial styles with Gothic elements. The property features a spacious ballroom, currently functioning as an art gallery and housing several popular restaurants.
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District Judge (Commercial) Vidya Prakash issued an order following the failure to comply with court directives.
The court noted,
“Given the aforementioned facts and circumstances, and observing that the Judgment Debtor (JD) did not provide an affidavit of assets despite multiple opportunities, the court agrees with the arguments presented on behalf of the Decree Holder (DH) and finds this case appropriate for issuing warrants of attachment against the JD’s immovable property, specifically Bikaner House, New Delhi.”
The order continued,
“You have failed to satisfy the award passed against you on January 21, 2020, in favor of M/s Enviro Infra Engineers Pvt. Ltd. for Rs. 50,31,512. Therefore, you, the Nagar Palika, Nokha, State of Rajasthan, are prohibited and restrained, until further orders, from transferring or charging the property listed in the annexed schedule by sale, gift, or otherwise. All individuals are also prohibited from receiving the same through purchase, gift, or other means.”
Jhabar Singh Kharra stated,
“We are aware of the court’s decision concerning Bikaner House in the Nokha Municipal Council case. The government will review the order and take the required steps. It is evident that negligence has occurred, and appropriate action will follow,”
Additionally, the court directed the JD to appear for the next hearing on November 29.
A Delhi court issued the attachment order in favour of Enviro Infra Engineers Pvt Ltd, with a recovery amount of Rs. 50 crore associated with this heritage site.
In light of this court setback, the Rajasthan government has tasked Additional Advocate General Shiv Mangal Sharma with taking all necessary actions to safeguard the property. The government criticized a previous officer for “laxity,” indicating that essential measures to protect state assets were not timely executed.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the state government has promptly issued directives for immediate corrective actions. According to a statement, Mr. Sharma will explore all legal avenues to secure the property and obtain a stay on the local court’s attachment order.
Bikaner House holds significant historical and cultural value for Rajasthan, and its potential attachment has raised concerns among state authorities due to its status as a public asset.
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The attachment relates to an unpaid arbitral award of Rs.50 crore in favour of Enviro Infra Engineers, with the court noting that the debtor failed to provide an affidavit of assets despite multiple reminders.
Mr. Sharma plans to file for an urgent stay on the attachment of this state property. The Rajasthan government has also committed to investigating perceived negligence by previous legal representatives and ensuring accountability moving forward.
Additionally, Mr. Sharma has the option to appeal to higher courts and other forums to protect the state’s interests and prevent the attachment.