Thaindian News

Thiruvananthapuram, June 17 (IANS) Kerala Revenue Minister K.P. Rajendran Thursday said the Supreme Court ruling clearing the way for the takeover of the Trivandrum Golf Club and golf course has vindicated the government’s stand.
“The government’s stand is vindicated and we are delighted because we have been engaged in a legal battle right from the lowest court here to the highest in the country. And all of them approved of our stance,” said Rajendran, minutes after the verdict.

The Supreme Court Thursday set up a 10 member panel led by the state chief secretary to look after the day-to-day affairs of the club.

The new committee will also include the present office bearers of the club.

“We will turn this club into one which will benefit. Where else do you have such a beautiful place with lot of greenery? We are capable of maintaining this club,” said Rajendran.

The 9-hole golf course spread over 25 acres was established by the royal family of Travancore in 1850. On Nov 11, 1966, the course was handed over to the club under licence for 99 years.

One of the provisions of the licence says that 30 years after the grant of licence, the state government could terminate it after giving a two-year notice. The notice period ends November 2010.

The club’s facilities are used by 600 members, most of whom are bureaucrats and politicians.