The Allahabad High Court ruled that the Places of Worship Act, 1991, does not prevent the State from acquiring religious properties for secular public purposes. Dismissing a plea against Varanasi’s Dalmandi redevelopment, the Court upheld the government’s authority to undertake lawful public infrastructure projects.
The Centre took control of Jaipur Polo Ground in Delhi’s Race Course area after an eviction order, stating the land would serve a larger public purpose. The move followed Delhi High Court proceedings involving environmental concerns and club premises.
Delhi High Court heard the Delhi Gymkhana Club case, with the Centre saying police would not move in on June 5 and eviction will follow due process, while Justice Avneesh Jhingan termed the plea as premature.
Delhi Gymkhana Club approached the Delhi High Court after the Central government ordered it to vacate the 27.3-acre property by June 5. Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi sought hearing, and Justice Avneesh Jhingan listed case for May 26.
