DW Bureau | Chandigarh, May 4, 2025: In a serious development that raises questions about institutional accountability and women’s rights in public spaces, entrepreneur Geeta Kapoor, who is the bonfide licensee of the cafeteria at the Chandigarh Lawn Tennis Association (CLTA), has filed a formal complaint with the National Commission for Women(NCW). The entrepreneur has also submitted a representation to Prerna Puri, IAS, Secretary, Department of Sports, Chandigarh Administration, requesting the withdrawal of the closure notice issued to her by CLTA on April 6, 2025.

Geeta Kapoor, who has been operating the cafeteria at the CLTA premises in Sector 10, Chandigarh for approximately four years under a valid license agreement addressed a press conference here today to highlight her plight. She was accompanied by her husband. It is important to note that Geeta Kapoor received an abrupt notice from CLTA dated April 6, 2025, directing closure of the cafeteria. This was followed by repeated verbal threats and pressure to vacate the premises immediately. Despite multiple requests, the memo from the Director Sports, Chandigarh—cited in the closure notice—has not been provided to Geeta, raising further concerns of procedural opacity.

Geeta, overwhelmed by emotion and stress of losing her livelihood said, “This is not just a violation of contract; it’s a clear abuse of power and intimidation targeting a woman entrepreneur. I am running a legitimate business under a lawful agreement with CLTA. The treatment I am receiving is degrading. I appeal to the NCW to intervene and ensure a fair inquiry into the matter so that I get justice and that I am allowed to continue operating my sole bread earner - the cafeteria I run at CLTA.”

Geeta in her complaint to NCW has accused the CLTA management, led by COO Megh Raj of sustained harassment, criminal intimidation, and illegal eviction without adherence to lawful procedures. She has said in her complaint that despite complete compliance with all contractual obligations, the management has been exerting undue pressure on her to vacate the premises. An emotional- teary eyed Geeta said, “I am fighting not just for myself, but for all women who want to run a business with dignity. My livelihood and that of other women and even men who work at the cafeteria will get affected if  the cafeteria is shut down.”

“It has come to my knowledge that the CLTA is allegedly in violation of the lease agreement with the Chandigarh Sports Department due to unauthorized subletting. However, I am a bona fide licensee who has paid all dues regularly. I have no role in procedural lapses between CLTA and the administration,” she added. The woman entrepreneur’s case has now become a flashpoint in a broader debate about transparency, governance, and gender justice in public institutions.