Golf: Justice Rameshwar Singh Malik to Continue as Returning Officer for IGU Elections as Delhi HC Rejects Appeal

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Delhi High Court has upheld Justice (Retd.) Rameshwar Singh Malik's appointment as the Returning Officer for the upcoming Indian Golf Union (IGU) elections scheduled for December 15. This decision comes after the Bengal Golf Association's plea for his removal was dismissed late on Thursday (December 12).

The IGU elections had seen contention following the resignations of Justice (Retd.) Permod Kohli and Justice (Retd.) O.P. Garg as Returning Officers. Subsequently, IGU President Brijinder Singh appointed Justice Malik to oversee the election process.

The Bengal Golf Association challenged this decision, citing procedural concerns, but the High Court refused to interfere with the election schedule.

Court's Observations:

The Bengal Golf Association's petition sought to:
1. Nullify Justice Malik's appointment as Returning Officer.
2. Restrain IGU President Brijinder Singh from modifying or interfering with the electoral college.

After hearing arguments from all parties, including the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), the High Court determined that the election process should not be disrupted. It ruled that any grievances or controversies should be raised after the elections, not during the process.

In its detailed judgment, the court also declined to address the exclusion of the Bengal Golf Association from the electoral list, noting that the petitioner retains the right to challenge the election results later if necessary.

Election Set to Proceed

With the High Court's decision, the IGU elections will proceed as scheduled under Justice Malik's supervision. The Indian Olympic Association, represented in court, acknowledged the ruling, signaling its awareness of the developments.

The court's verdict brings clarity to the election process, ensuring that the IGU elections will go forward without additional legal obstacles.