The Centre has asked the Delhi Gymkhana Club to hand over its sprawling 27.3-acre premises in Lutyens’ Delhi by June 5, citing the need to strengthen defence infrastructure and public security in the high-security zone.
The order was issued by the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, terminating the lease of the club premises located at 2, Safdarjung Road.
In its communication to the club on May 22, the L&DO stated that the land, situated close to several key government and defence establishments, was “critically required” for strengthening and securing defence infrastructure as well as for other public-interest projects.
The club, located adjacent to the Prime Minister’s residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, occupies one of the most strategically significant land parcels in the national capital.
According to the order, the premises had originally been leased to the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd — now known as Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd — for the purpose of operating a social and sporting club.
“In exercise of the powers conferred under Clause 4 of the Lease Deed, the President of India, through the Land and Development Office, hereby determines the lease and orders re-entry of the aforesaid premises with immediate effect,” the order stated.
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It further said that upon re-entry, the land along with all buildings, lawns, structures and fittings would vest with the President of India through the L&DO.
The authorities directed the club management to hand over peaceful possession of the premises on June 5, warning that failure to comply could lead to legal action for taking over possession.
Reacting to the development, club member Siddharth said the order would be challenged legally.
“The next step will be to file an appeal against this order. The club is very old and has a large number of members. There is no security threat or any such concern,” he said.
He added that the club would comply if directed by the court.
Founded during the British era, the club began functioning at the site in 1913 under the name Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club and was renamed after Independence. The present structures were built in the 1930s.
The development marks a significant move by the Centre involving one of Delhi’s oldest and most exclusive institutions.
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