JOIN USThe BBMP, in an affidavit filed during the hearing on an interlocutory application (IA) moved by former mayor P R Ramesh and others, has stated that it is withdrawing all short-term tenders called on January 13, 2010. However, it sought permission to proceed with the prequalification tenders called on September 30, last year.
The division bench headed by Justice V Gopala Gowda disposed the IA, but adjourned the Public Interest Litigation related to prequalification tenders.
It could be recalled that the BBMP had called for tenders worth Rs 300 crore to clear and process solid waste, on September 30, 2009.
The process was however stayed by the High Court following a PIL by former mayor Ramesh. The tenders were again floated on January 13, 2010 in 20 pieces. The HC had sought an affidavit from the BBMP during the previous hearing following an IA moved by the petitioner.
No extension
The State government on Tuesday submitted before the High Court that it cannot extend the betting licence to Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) beyond January 31. Advocate General Ashok Harnahalli made the submission during the hearing of a petition filed by the management and staff associations of the BTC challenging shifting of the race course.
Justice Ajit Gunjal, who heard the matter, sought to know the stance of the petitioner - whether to proceed with the matter on merits or request the Government to provide an alternative land.
The petitioners had submitted that the Race Course existed in the City since the 1860s. The land grant was absolute and was to hold good as long as racing continued. While it takes at least three to five years to construct a race course of international standards, the authorities were already threatening to cut the power supply. They pointed that the issue involves the fate of 5,000 employees who look after over 1,000 thoroughbred horses and the club.