Delhi High Court Gets Assurance From Centre Over Delhi Gymkhana Club Takeover

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The Centre on Tuesday assured the Delhi High Court that it would not forcibly take over the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club on June 5, offering temporary relief to thousands of members worried about the future of one of the country’s oldest elite institutions.

During the hearing, the Union government clarified that the June 5 date mentioned in its eviction notice was only meant for a voluntary handover of the property and not for any forced action. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that possession of the club premises would only be taken according to legal procedure.

The bench of Justice Avneesh Jhingan accepted the government’s statement and granted interim protection to members who had challenged the eviction notice issued to the club.

The dispute revolves around the 27.3-acre property occupied by the Delhi Gymkhana Club on Safdarjung Road in New Delhi. The government had recently invoked provisions of a 1928 lease deed, asking the club to hand over the premises, citing national security, defence infrastructure and public-interest projects.

However, club members argued before the court that the notice failed to clearly explain what project required the entire property or why such urgent action was necessary.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for several members, argued that the petition had been filed because the club’s management was allegedly functioning under significant government influence after earlier intervention by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

He claimed the members had no choice but to approach the court directly to protect the institution and its interests.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal also questioned the legality of the government’s move. He argued that the lease clause being relied upon by the Centre predates the Constitution and cannot override constitutional protections or due process.

The government, meanwhile, informed the court that the lease agreement also contains provisions for compensation. According to the Centre, compensation could either be financial or through the offer of an alternative property where the club could continue operating.

Founded in 1913, the Delhi Gymkhana Club is considered one of India’s most exclusive social clubs and has been facing governance and lease disputes for several years. The latest controversy adds another chapter to the ongoing tussle between the government and the institution, which also faces allegations related to unpaid dues and lease violations.

The Delhi High Court has now sought detailed replies from the Union government and other parties within eight weeks, while the matter continues to remain under judicial consideration.