Hyderabad: A performance audit report of defence estates management tabled in 2011 by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) revealed that the land given to Secunderabad Club was meant for the welfare of armed forces. It also mentioned that guest rooms were constructed on the land without authorisation.
According to the report “Bungalow No. 220, known as Secunderabad Club, measuring 20.18 acres, classified as B3 land, was given to the club for welfare of the armed forces. The club had made unauthorised construction over the land, including 33 guest rooms, restaurant, and a petrol pump and was charging rent ranging from Rs 2,400-3,000 per day per suite. The case of unauthorised construction was sub-judice.”
The report also mentioned the defence ministry’s observation that the “clubs established to provide recreational facilities to the defence personnel and their families had expanded their activities and enrolled civilians as members of the club.”
The ministry stated in January 2002 that the practice was defeating the very purpose for which the land was given.
“The ministry directed Services headquarters and DGDE to initiate action for termination of lease in such cases,” the report mentioned.
However, representatives of the club claim that the land was donated by Salar Jung.
Adnan Mahmood, legal adviser of Secunderabad Club, said that the original owners of the land are club members since 1878.
“The audit report claims that like many other bungalows in the cantonment area, Secunderabad Club is under army control. It is at fault.”
