Golfers in Upper Assam have expressed anguish that Kanjikhowa Golf Course, which belongs to Apeejay Tea, is being ploughed for tea plantation.

The Upper Assam Golf Association (UAGA) has passed a resolution expressing its deep anguish at the turn of events. The golf course is in Tinsukia district.

A member of the association said, “It was a total shock to us and came out of the blue. It all happened about a week back when people started noticing tractors being used to plough the course.”

According to the resolution, “The Kanjikhowa Golf Course is a heritage property having its roots in 1911. It has been instrumental in promoting and preserving the rich sporting traditions and legacies of the upper Assam districts. In view of the current developments, the UAGA members direct the UAGA executive body/committee to suitably take up the matter at a appropriate level and also take all other necessary action including legal recourse to retain the present sanctity/ standing of the Kanjikhowa Golf Course.”

The Kanjikhowa golf course, spread over nearly 18 hectares, is one of the nine golf courses enlisted under the state tourism department as a registered golf course of the state.

It was curated by J. Alstom, then superintendant of Assam Frontier Company, between 1894 and 1900.

The first tournament was organised in 1911 — the Assam Frontier Challenge Cup — under the stewardship of A.U. Crows (1906-1921).

In a letter to Karan Paul, chairman of Apeejay Surrendra Group, the association said, “It has been reliably learnt that the Kanjikhowa Golf Course of Panitola Sports Club, situated at Kharjan tea estate, is being prepared for tea cultivation. You will most certainly be aware that the Kanjikhowa Golf Course is a heritage property, has been instrumental in regularly promoting and preserving the rich sporting traditions and legacies of the Upper Assam districts.”

It said despite the recent turmoil and uncertainties which have plagued the tea industry, the Kanjikhowa Golf Course has even last year continued to host and organise regular tournaments as per schedule,” the letter said.

“We make a humble but urgent appeal to you and your good office to support us in our endeavour to save the Kanjikhowa Golf Course, by retaining the existing standing of this course. We also request you to consider a proposal to rename Kanjikhowa Golf Course in the memory of your late father Surrendra Paul,” the letter said.

When contacted, Apeejay Tea refused to comment.