Delhi Gymkhana Club Challenges Government's Eviction Order in Court

Legal Battle Over Delhi Gymkhana Club Eviction

A legal dispute has erupted regarding the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club, located in Lutyens' Delhi, following the central government's directive to vacate the premises. The club has approached the Delhi High Court to contest the government's order, which mandates the club to clear its 27.3-acre land by June 5. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi highlighted the urgency of the matter before Justice Avneesh Jhingan, requesting an immediate hearing. In light of the case's significance, the court has agreed to hear the petition on Tuesday, May 26.

On May 22, the Land and Development Office (L&DO) instructed the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its property located at 2, Safdarjung Road. This order referenced Clause 4 of the original lease agreement, which grants the government the authority to reclaim land for 'public purposes.'

According to the government, this land is crucial for bolstering defense infrastructure and other essential public safety needs, given its proximity to the Prime Minister's residence and several high-security establishments.

The government's notice stated, 'Upon reclaiming the land, the entire 27.3-acre plot, along with all buildings, structures, lawns, and fittings, will revert to the lessor, namely the President of India, managed through the Land and Development Office.' It further indicated that the L&DO would take possession of the premises on June 5.

Club Seeks Clarification After Government Directive

In response to the government's order, the general committee of the Delhi Gymkhana Club convened an emergency review meeting to address various concerns raised by its members and staff, proposing to seek immediate clarification from the government.

In a statement, the club mentioned that the general committee held an urgent meeting and, after thorough discussions, decided to write to the L&DO requesting clarification on several issues affecting its members and employees.

Additionally, the club expressed its intention to request an immediate meeting with officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to discuss the matter further. The committee emphasized that its top priority is to ensure the club's operations continue without interruption.

Established on July 3, 1913, as the 'Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club,' the institution primarily served British civil servants and military officials during the colonial era. After India's independence in 1947, the term 'Imperial' was removed from its name, although most of the club's existing buildings were constructed in the 1930s.