We are optimistic about the tax issue: Jain
DNA
August 4, 2010
It has been five days of the Pune racing season, but the tempo is yet to set in. With the government imposing 20 per cent taxation, it has been a low revenue turnout in this edition of Pune racing. Chairman of the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC), Vivek Jain, spoke to Joe Williams about the meetings held so far and the days ahead in the 23 days of racing, which ends on October 22. There were a few technical flaws on the first day of the Pune sponsored race day. French rider Stephane Ladjadj (astride Tequila) and Neeral Rawal (atop Takestwototango) did catch a few eyes as the former elbowed Rawal during the 1,400-metre journey in the Hurricane Plate, the sixth race on Sunday.
The stewards rightly called for a meeting on this issue. Tequila was initially declared the winner, but after the stewards' enquiry, the result was revised with Cloud Cover being declared the winner and Tequila disqualified. Jain answered the questions in details. Excerpts:
On the start of the season:
It has been a good but low-profile start. At least when we talk about revenue, it has been low. It is too early to say anything as things should fall in place in the days to come. The attendance is very good, but not the revenue. In all I would say despite the major tax issue, it has been good start.
On revenue collections:
It has hit the club (RWITC), but I feel that it is a phase and we will overcome this. I have always been saying that the tax issue would hit the club and it has been observed that the revenue has been affected.
On a possible solution:
We have approached many people in this regard and since it is a political issue, it will take some days. I would say it may take months before some step is taken to address the issue. We have no choice but to go ahead with it. We shall wait and see, but I will be optimistic in this regard.
On the first sponsored race:
McDowell Signature Turf Club Trophy, the first sponsored race, evoked good response inspite of heavy rains in Pune, which is a clear indication that there are many who keep this sport alive.
On the days to come:
We still have many days of Pune racing left and with big events lined up, which also includes the DNA Trophy on August 21, it will be a season to remember. We should overcome the present decline in revenue and hopefully the government will consider the case and revise the tax burden.
On the Ladjadj-Rawal issue:
This matter is still under enquiry, so I would not like to comment on it. The outcome of the enquiry will be announced by this weekend or next week.
