The issue of the appointment of an Additional Chief Stipendiary Steward by the Bangalore Turf Club has taken a curious turn. Karanataka Government has sent a letter to BTC saying that as per the licensing conditions for conducting betting which was issued a few years ago, its mandatory for the Club to take prior approval from the Government to appoint a Chief Stipendiary Steward.
It is reliably learnt that the management of the BTC took note of the letter in its Managing Committee meeting held on December 10, and had decided to go ahead with the interviewing of the candidates and their subsequent appointment. They felt that the appointment could be made by using a different nomenclature for the same post. However, Ashok Raghavan, who is one of the Government nominees, took a strong exception to this decision, and made it clear in writing to the BTC management that it would not be proper to go ahead without obtaining the Government permission. He feels that any appointment made in violation of the Government directive would be detrimental to the interests of the BTC.
Meanwhile, the management of the BTC has filed a reply to the Government explaining its stance on the issue. The Government, it is learnt, is examining the issue and is expected to give its opinion within a few days. The BTC Committee is reportedly divided on the issue and has kept the appointment in abeyance for the time being.
Ashok Raghavan, who is the present Secretary of the Karnataka Racehorse Owners Association (KROA) and The Indian Racehorse Owners Federation (TIROF), is known for his forthright views on racing matters and is expected to maintain his stance on the issue. He has been primarily responsible for making the KROA to be recognised as a potent force in the racing industry and has been successful in most negotiations with the BTC on behalf of horse-owners.
The racing fraternity is eagerly watching the outcome of this latest controversy.
