The Union government has directed the 113-year-old Delhi Gymkhana Club to hand over its 27.3-acre premises in Lutyens’ Delhi by June 5. The order, issued by the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, cites an urgent need to strengthen and secure defence infrastructure and other public security purposes, describing the area as sensitive and strategically located near central government residences.
The club and some of its members say they are seeking clarity and challenging the directive. The club has said it will write to the L&DO to request answers on issues related to relocation/alternative land and related implications for members and employees. Reports also indicate the club received the L&DO notice on May 22, and that earlier notices over unpaid ground rent dues of about Rs 48 crore were issued since September.
Separately, club members have filed a petition in the Delhi High Court against the eviction notice. They allege the notice does not specify a clear public purpose and does not mention compensation, and they argue it is part of a broader attempt to take control of the club. The High Court is set to hear the matter on an urgent basis.
