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Congress moves Delhi High Court seeking execution of a sale deed for its former headquarters
The Delhi High Court on May 14, 2026, asked the Centre and Delhi Government to respond to a petition by the Indian National Congress seeking the execution of a sale deed for the party's former headquarters at 7, Jantar Mantar Road. The court issued notices and scrutinized the petition's maintainability as interim relief was sought, while Congress argued it has longstanding possession and paid consideration in 1959. The case highlights ongoing ownership disputes over the historic property.
Why It Matters
If the court allows execution of the sale deed, it could solidify Congress ownership of the former HQ. The proceedings also raise questions about petition maintainability, interim relief standards, and potential reallocation of the property.
Timeline
4 Events
High Court notices to Centre and GN; maintainability questioned
May 14, 2026
The Delhi High Court, on May 14, 2026, asked the Centre and Delhi Government to respond to the Congress petition seeking the execution of a sale deed for its former headquarters. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav issued notices to both governments on the petition and the application for interim relief, and questioned the petition's maintainability, indicating that interim relief would require a proper maintainability finding and suggesting a possible civil suit if needed. Congress argued it has been in possession for decades with documents and payments, and urged the court to prevent allotment to others.
Payment of sale consideration and related charges in 1959
1959
In 1959, the Congress paid ₹6.1 lakh to the Government of India towards sale consideration, in addition to ₹96,962 and ₹4,849 per annum towards additional premium and additional ground rent for change of user.
Allotment in favour of Congress in 1956
1956
The petition states that an allotment of the property in favour of the Indian National Congress was made in 1956.
Congress claims possession since February 1946
February 1946
According to Delhi Government records cited in the petition, the Congress party has been in possession of a part of the property at 7, Jantar Mantar Road, New Delhi since February 1946.