BTC moves to hike membership

In perhaps the biggest development so far in the licence issue, the Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) has decided to approach the government to seek its nod for the increase in the club’s membership.

With the government denying the renewal of licence, racing activities had come to a standstill in the City since August 31. After many attempts from the club to convince Chief Minister Siddaramiah turned futile, the BTC authorities seem to have finally decided to agree to the demands of the government.

“We the managing committee have adopted a resolution to increase the membership. As per the rules, we must first get the government’s approval to amend the articles of association. We will be submitting the resolution in a day or two,” said Harimohan Naidu, BTC chairman, on Sunday.

While the government’s approval is a must, the final call to increase the membership lies in the hands of the members of the club. “We will first wait for the government’s response. In case the government approves it, I will call for an Extraordinary General Body Meeting (EGM). The members then will decide the fate of this issue,” Naidu added.

The winter season is scheduled to begin in November and with time running out for the club, the latest move was on expected lines. Since it’s the government’s demand, the BTC is expected to receive its nod without much complications but it remains to be seen if the members agree to the latest move.