Government Orders Transfer of Historic Delhi Gymkhana Club for National Security Needs

Government Directive on Delhi Gymkhana Club

The central government has mandated the transfer of the Gymkhana Club, one of India's oldest clubs located in Lutyens' Delhi, for defense infrastructure and other critical public safety purposes by June 5. An official order issued on May 22 stated that the premises, situated at 2 Safdarjung Road, was leased to the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club Limited (now known as Delhi Gymkhana Club Limited) for social and sports club operations. However, the order emphasizes that the 27.3-acre site is now required to meet urgent institutional needs, governance infrastructure, and public interest projects, which also includes the acquisition of surrounding government land.

Details of the Order

The order further specifies that under the powers granted by Clause 4 of the lease deed, the President of India, through the Land and Development Office, is terminating the lease and ordering the immediate repossession of the aforementioned premises. Upon re-entry, the entire 27.3-acre plot, including all buildings, structures, lawns, and fittings, will be fully reclaimed by the President of India through the Land and Development Office. According to the government order, the premises will be taken over by the Land and Development Office on June 5. The technical section of the department will secure the premises on behalf of the government. You are instructed to hand over peaceful possession of the premises to representatives of this office on the specified date. Failure to comply will result in possession being taken under the law.

Historical Significance of Delhi Gymkhana Club

Established in 1913, the Delhi Gymkhana Club is located on Lok Kalyan Marg, near the Prime Minister's residence in the heart of Lutyens' Delhi. Initially known as the 'Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club', the term 'Imperial' was removed following India's independence on August 15, 1947. According to information available on its website, the Polo Club was originally considered part of the Gymkhana Club but became a separate entity after relocating to New Delhi in the 1930s.