Veterans urge Rajnath Singh to save Air Force Sports Complex near PM's residence

In a letter dated November 5, signed by Wing Commander Ajit Kakkar (Retd) on behalf of AFSC veterans and members, the signatories have urged the Defence Minister to reconsider the decision to transfer the land to the Land and Development Office (L&DO).

In Short

• The complex served Air Force personnel and their families for nearly eight decades
• Elderly members fear losing an enduring connection with their institution
• The site includes extensive greenery and reportedly 300-year-old heritage trees

Air Force veterans and members of the Air Force Sports Complex (AFSC) have appealed to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to intervene in the closure and handover of the facility in New Delhi's Race Course area, seeking restoration of its previous status and protection of its sporting infrastructure.

In a letter dated November 5, signed by Wing Commander Ajit Kakkar (Retd) on behalf of AFSC veterans and members, the signatories have urged the Defence Minister to reconsider the decision to transfer the land to the Land and Development Office (L&DO). They have sought the preservation of the complex's existing possession, access, facilities and institutional character.

The veterans have also requested that no eviction, dispossession, closure, demolition or alteration be carried out while their representation is under consideration and a comprehensive review of the matter is undertaken.

Describing the complex as an integral part of the Indian Air Force's institutional legacy, the letter says it has remained associated with the force for nearly eight decades, contributing to sporting excellence, physical fitness and camaraderie among serving and retired personnel.

The signatories have argued that the AFSC is much more than a sports and recreational facility. They have described it as a cherished space where generations of Air Force personnel and their families have built friendships and lasting memories.

The letter also highlights the emotional significance of the complex for elderly veterans in their seventies, eighties and nineties, saying its closure would sever a longstanding connection with the institution to which they devoted their working lives.

VETERANS FLAG HERITAGE, GREEN COVER AT COMPLEX

The appeal has also drawn attention to the complex's extensive green cover and heritage trees, some of which reportedly date back nearly 300 years. The veterans have urged the authorities to take into account the site's historical, ecological and environmental significance before making any further decisions.

They have sought a comprehensive review involving the Defence Ministry, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Indian Air Force. The signatories have also requested an early appointment with Rajnath Singh so that a delegation can present historical records and supporting documents in person.

The veterans have maintained that they are not seeking any special favour or undue concession, but want the preservation of an institution they consider an important part of the Air Force's legacy.

AIR FORCE SPORTS COMPLEX HANDED OVER TO L&DO

The appeal comes after the Air Force Sports Complex was shut on October 28 following the L&DO's move to reclaim the premises. India Today had earlier reported on the closure and the proposed handover of the facility.

The development also led to the cancellation of the traditional farewell golfing-out ceremony of former Air Chief Marshal AP Singh.

The Indian Air Force formally handed over 39.5 acres of land to the L&DO on November 5, on an "as is, where is" basis. A joint survey involving the Defence Estate Office, the IAF and the L&DO was also undertaken to establish the exact land measurements.

- Ends