A member of the Delhi Gymkhana Club has approached the Delhi High Court challenging the Centre's decision to reclaim the club's iconic 27.3-acre premises at 2, Safdarjung Road in Lutyens' Delhi, citing 'public security purposes.' The petition was filed by club member Vijay Khurana against the Union government's move to resume possession of one of India's oldest and most prestigious social institutions.

How the Case Reached Court

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi mentioned the plea before Justice Avneesh Jhingan on Monday, seeking urgent listing. The Delhi High Court agreed to take up the matter on Tuesday, 27 May 2025. The petition directly contests the Union government's notice directing the club to vacate its premises by 5 June.

What the Eviction Notice Said

The eviction notice, issued on 22 May by Deputy Land and Development Officer Suchit Goyal of the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, stated that the premises were 'critically required for the strengthening and securing of Defence infrastructure and other vital public security purposes.' The government further cited 'urgent institutional needs, governance infrastructure, and public-interest projects, integrated with the resumption of adjoining government lands.'

Invoking Clause 4 of the perpetual lease deed, the notice stated that the lessor held authority to re-enter the premises if the land was required for a public purpose. 'Exercising those powers, the President of India, acting through the Land and Development Office, has determined the lease and ordered immediate re-entry of the property,' the notice stated. Under the government's directive, the entire land parcel — including all buildings, structures, lawns, and fittings — would vest absolutely with the President of India through the L&DO.

About the Delhi Gymkhana Club

Established in 1913 during the colonial era, the Delhi Gymkhana Club is widely regarded as one of India's oldest and most prestigious social institutions. Its current premises were developed in the early 1930s by architect Robert T. Russell, who also designed Connaught Place and the erstwhile Commander-in-Chief's residence — later known as Teen Murti House. The club counts around 5,600 permanent members, with applicants reportedly waiting decades to secure membership. Its constituency has historically included senior bureaucrats, diplomats, military officials, and influential citizens.

Indian Polo Association Also Served Notice

Notably, the Centre has issued a similar eviction notice to the Indian Polo Association, located opposite the Prime Minister's residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, also citing the need to strengthen 'Defence infrastructure and other vital public security purposes.' The twin notices suggest a broader government effort to consolidate land in the high-security Lutyens' zone.

What Happens Next

With the Delhi High Court set to hear the case, the 5 June handover deadline now faces a legal challenge. The outcome could have significant implications for how the Centre exercises perpetual lease clauses on heritage and institutional properties across New Delhi. Observers will watch whether the court grants an interim stay on the eviction notice pending a full hearing.