After the final arguments on Friday afternoon, Justice Krishna Kumar has reserved orders on the petition filed by the Bangalore Turf Club (BTC) and two other associations connected with racing, seeking restoration of the license to conduct racing operations at the premier club. The matter heard on Friday after the case was adjourned on Thursday following arguments has been posted for orders on Tuesday June 18.

The license to conduct racing was denied by the government on April 1 till date. During the hearing the Advocate General defended Government's decision to hold back and deny licence to the club citing Supreme Court judgements. He argued that the government had the prerogative to issue or deny licence and suggested that any procedural issues could be referred back to the government for review.

Justice Kumar observed that the charges were specifically against two officials of the BTC and not the club as a whole. He raised the question whether vicarious liability should extend to the club itself. BTC's counsel on a counter argued that while the government has the authority to grant licence on discretion, the discretion must be properly exercised. The BTC legal counsel contended that a licence should not be denied merely because of the pending charges and ongoing investigations.

The judge then asked what conditions might be imposed if the court were to allow racing and betting at BTC as an interim measure.

BTC's counsel suggested that conditions should be in line with laws governing racing and betting.

In the racing circles the interest is high with the hope that the court will direct the government to permit the start of summer races under specific conditions. The final order on Tuesday holds the key.