Members of the Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) are voicing strong objections to the land size, rent and lease tenure stipulated for the move to Kunigal Stud Farm. They are urging the Public Works Department to revisit the conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • BTC seeks larger land allotment and lower rent in Bangalore
  • State Cabinet allocated 110 acres at Kunigal with a two‑year vacate deadline
  • Dispute centers on lease duration and renewal options

The Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) is in the middle of a high‑stakes relocation to Kunigal Stud Farm, roughly 60 km from the city, and its members are increasingly vocal about the perceived inadequacy of the terms. The core grievances revolve around the amount of land retained in Bangalore, the rent rate on that land, and the length of the lease granted.

Background and Government Decision

In February 2026, the Karnataka State Cabinet approved the transfer of 110 acres at Kunigal to the club, imposing a two‑year deadline from the date of hand‑over for BTC to vacate its current premises. The cabinet also earmarked four acres within the existing site—where the heritage clubhouse stands—for continued use. BTC members deem this allocation insufficient and are demanding at least six acres on the present site.

Members’ Demands and Financial Implications

During an Extraordinary General Body meeting, a member highlighted that major race days attract up to 10,000 spectators, making the four‑acre offering far too cramped. The members argue that surrendering over 60 acres to the government should merit a larger retained parcel. Moreover, the government’s proposed rent—2.5 % of the land’s guidance value—translates to roughly ₹15 crore annually, a figure the members consider exorbitant. They are lobbying for a rent rate of merely 0.10 %.

Lease Duration Disparity

While the Kunigal lease is slated for 29 years, renewable for another 29 years, the lease for the Bangalore premises has been fixed at just five years. This stark contrast has been labelled “a too‑short window” by several members, who are now pressing for a 29‑year lease with a similar renewal clause for the Bangalore site.

Path Forward

BTC officials have already met Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and are scheduled for a follow‑up discussion after the EGM. Failure to reconcile these issues could jeopardise the club’s financial health, membership appeal, and the future of high‑profile racing events in the region. A balanced resolution will require both the government and the club to align on realistic land usage, fair rent, and long‑term lease security.