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Indian Diaspora
Delhi Gymkhana Club
Government Orders Handover of Elite Delhi Gymkhana Club
The Union government has ordered the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its sprawling 27.3-acre premises by June 5, citing urgent public interest and national security requirements. The Land & Development Office, under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, issued the directive on Friday for the prime Lutyens' Delhi property, adjacent to the Prime Minister's residence. This move culminates years of legal battles and government intervention over allegations of mismanagement, opaque membership practices, and financial irregularities at the century-old elite institution. Club members and employees are preparing to challenge the eviction order in the Delhi High Court.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Union government has ordered the Delhi Gymkhana Club to hand over its 27.3-acre premises by June 5, 2026.
The reason cited is "strengthening and securing of defence infrastructure and other vital public security purposes."
This decision follows years of disputes and government oversight regarding the club's management and operations.
Club members and employees are preparing legal action to challenge the government's eviction order.
WHY IT MATTERS
The forceful takeover of the Delhi Gymkhana Club signifies a broader governmental push to assert control over institutions perceived as entrenched elite preserves, often linked to India's colonial past. It reflects ongoing tensions between traditional power structures and the current administration's emphasis on public interest and national security.