Government Seeks Possession of Prime Lutyens' Delhi Land
The Union government has formally begun eviction proceedings against the prestigious Delhi Gymkhana Club, aiming to take over its sprawling 27.3-acre property at 2, Safdarjung Road. The Centre asserts that the land is urgently required for critical defence infrastructure, public security, and other governance-related facilities, categorizing these as essential public interest projects.
A plaint filed before the Estate Officer of the Land and Development Office (L&DO) highlights that the property belongs to the Union of India and falls under the purview of "public premises" as defined by the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.
Lease Termination and Unauthorised Occupation
The government invoked Clause 4 of the perpetual lease deed, originally granted in 1928 to the then Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd. This clause permits the government to resume possession if the property is needed for a public purpose. According to the Centre, the lease has been terminated, and the club's continued occupation is now "wholly unauthorised and illegal."
A notice issued by the President of India, through the L&DO on May 22, 2026, terminated the lease and ordered the club to vacate the premises by June 5. As the club allegedly failed to comply, it is now considered an "unauthorised occupant" under Section 2(g) of the Public Premises Act, making it liable for eviction.
Strategic Importance and Legal Battle
The property's location in a "highly sensitive" and strategically important area of Lutyens' Delhi, in close proximity to key government establishments, underscores the Centre's justification. The government emphasizes the need to strengthen defence and public security infrastructure in this crucial zone.
The current eviction move follows the club's challenge against the government's decision in the Delhi High Court. However, the Centre's plaint notes that the High Court declined to issue any injunction preventing the takeover, indicating that possession would be resumed in accordance with the law. A hearing on the matter before the Land and Development Office is scheduled for July 7.
About the Delhi Gymkhana Club
Founded in 1913 as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club, and later renamed after India's independence, the Delhi Gymkhana Club is one of the nation's oldest and most exclusive social institutions. Situated adjacent to the Prime Minister's residence, it has historically attracted senior bureaucrats, diplomats, military officers, and prominent business leaders as members.