Annandale – The Duel

Having lived nearby iconic the Annandale ground of Shimla, which is in news for quite some time now. On periphery, of which, we played, walked and enjoyed our childhood. The two custodian institutions of the ground property are in war of words these days, politics of the hill state on rampant duel of allegations, controversy which denies dying down, but for all wrong reasons. As a common Shimlaite I’m pained.

Located well within the city, Annandale ground has its unique ambiance, surrounded on three-forth of its circumference by hill side. Two part of the hill side is dense forest below Choura Medan and one part of it is slopes of Kaithu suberb below Tarahall. Only around one-fourth of the surrounding is open akin to a piece cut out from a birthday cake. It is this gorgeous setting which gives people visiting Annandale their unforgettable memories.

Well placed in history books, this Annandale ground bears the crown of holding second oldest football tournament in the world. In 1888, the Durand Cup was first played here. Annandale ground barely about 5 km from Scandal Point on the Mall, very heart of the city, had been a spot for cultural and recreational area even in British era, as documented by Vipin Pubby in his popular book ‘Simla then and Now.’

Staying these days away from my hometown, I was shocked on the carelessness of the both entities, as they indulged in needless public utterance on the issue of it ownership.

During the British Raj it belonged to Central Government as on independence it went to State Government and for decades it was with the Army on lease, over a few years back, not renewed also.

Having said that, the arguments of the Indian Army, which even to this day is in control of the ground property houses its barrack and training center in the same location, states that this ground is useful for relief operations during natural calamity like floods and earthquakes and in case of the military expeditions during war also, can be taken in case specifics. Ground can houses around four helicopters simultaneously. Its usefulness in having, a close to city location of landing and taking off of choppers with dignitaries is well utilised.

Usage of the of Annandale for relief work during natural calamities is valid argument, but during tactical employment of the armed forces for strategic operation using this as one of the base doesn’t seems to be a sound argument. As Kaithu, Choura Medan area overlooks the ground and it would be nearly impossible to maintain secrecy as people can vigil tactical movement of the persons from their balcony.

Still Government and the Army establish must still together sit and analyse the strategic needs and possibilities if those could be met at any other location without compromising on the strategic significance of any such operation which army wishes to take up.

State Government is facing allegation of probable favours for proposed building of Annandale as a Cricket Stadium. As Anurag Thakur, head of Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association, is the son of current Chief Minister of the State.

Anurag Thakur, got  acclaim in his successful bid to make Dharmashala cricket stadium a IPL T20 cricket venue and attracted sports enthusiasts from India and abroad. Now this CM scion is eyeing for a cricket stadium in the queen of hills.

While I assess the quality of communications between army and government establishment, it made me concerned that how can these people holding high offices, could go on record and made such remarks. Had it been any other, apart from present CM Prem Kumar Dhumal, discussion wouldn’t have taken so sharp turns as it were evident because Anurag Thakur’s vocal support for transforming Annandale into a cricket stadium.

I for that matter not against cricket, football or any other sport being played at the Annandale Ground, as army people too uses portion of the ground for Golf. But, it would be of a thoughtful leadership of the government, even if they intent to use this ground for sports, must they sit and discuss the issues with Army brass.

But need of the hour is to have a sensible discussion among both the institutions keeping integrity of the said institutions. I personally shall support a Black & white policy which doesn’t needs leaders in petty commentary or media muddling but Army and Govt both needs to come with arguments, why they need this ground. And what better if they come with the final statement on the issue.
(to be cont..)