Express concern over ‘constitutional violations, lack of management since 2012’
SRINAGAR: In an urgent appeal, a group of permanent members from the historic Kashmir Golf Club has formally requested the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to nominate a new Club Chairman to address ongoing governance issues that they say threaten the very essence of the 138-year-old institution.
The letter, signed by multiple long-standing members including its first local admissions from the late 1960s, highlights serious concerns regarding the management of the club. Since the last Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in 2012, the club has seen a concerning lack of oversight that, according to the members, constitutes a gross violation of the club’s constitution, which mandates annual meetings and financial approvals.
The members, according to the letter, cited specific articles from the club’s constitution, noting that Article 35(1) requires AGMs to be held at least once a year. “The unexplained gap of 13 years since the last meeting underscores a systemic failure, risking the club’s operational integrity,” said Ghulam Jeelani Pandit, one of the letter’s signees and a permanent member.
Adding to the urgency, the letter underscores that Article 37(1) requiring member notification regarding rule changes has not been adhered to, rendering numerous decisions and financial expenditures questionable and potentially illegal.
The members expressed their high regard for the current Chairman, who also serves as the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, but acknowledged that the dual responsibilities hinder effective leadership at the Club. To rectify the situation, they have recommended Mr. Nasir Hamid Khan for nomination as the new Chairman. Khan, currently serving as the Honorary Secretary of the Amar Singh Club in Srinagar, is praised for his exemplary management and administrative skills that turned that institution into a benchmark for quality and service.
The proposal seeks to re-establish member involvement in club governance and to initiate an immediate review of facilities and services. The members call for a detailed blueprint for the club’s revival to be prepared within two months, along with scheduling a General Body Meeting to discuss progress and elections.
The members are hopeful that the Chief Minister will take their concerns seriously as they push for a return to democratic processes and improved management practices.