The Bangalore Golf Club (BGC), an establishment with a century-long history, has recently decided to raise the one-time fee for permanent memberships by a substantial 400%, amounting to Rs 5 lakh. This move is anticipated to impact around 3,000 individuals currently on the waiting list, many of whom are avid golfers.

 

 

Bangalore Golf Club

 

 

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Some members of the club felt the steep hike—taken at a special general meeting held recently—was unreasonable as it could discourage genuine golf enthusiasts who do not hail from well-do-do families. This fee was last revised in 2014.  

 

 

In a recent communication to potential golfing members, the BGC has officially declared an immediate adjustment to the one-time fee, elevating it from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.

 

 

As per the Board's decision on October 19, current applicants on the waiting list are urged to submit Rs 4 lakh by April 2024 to maintain their position. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the removal of their names from the list, and the previously paid Rs 1 lakh will be refunded. This move impacts 3,000 existing applicants, potentially generating a substantial Rs 120 crore for the BGC in just four months.

 

 

The notice to potential members emphasizes that the fee, even after the hike, remains comparatively low when compared to similar prestigious golf and social clubs. Currently, the waiting period for membership ranges from 10 to 20 years based on factors such as residency, golfing skills, and more.

 

 

While the intention is not to align the one-time fee with other clubs, the BGC cites a substantial increase in maintenance costs for the golf course and other facilities as a necessity for this enhancement. Future fund requirements are also cited as a reason for the fee hike.

 

 

The Rs 5 lakh increase is applicable to general category memberships, and the BGC has also raised this one-time fees for other categories, including children of members, NRI associates, long-term associates, and corporate associates. Additionally, monthly subscription fees paid by members have increased.

 

 

Critics among the members argue that these hikes are likely to discourage individuals without existing connections in golf clubs from taking up the sport. They suggest that, considering the BGC's government-leased land and potential for expense reduction, there is room to lower fees and promote diversity in memberships.

 

 

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