Former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Ashok Khemka has publicly endorsed the Central government's recent directive to terminate the lease of the prestigious Delhi Gymkhana Club. Khemka lauded the move as a 'bold decision' by the government, though he questioned its resolve against potential 'elite pressure.'
Government Orders Club to Vacate Premises
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, through its Land and Development Office (L&DO), issued an order on May 22, instructing the Delhi Gymkhana Club to hand over its 27.3-acre property at 2, Safdarjung Road by June 5. The government invoked Clause 4 of the original lease deed, which permits the Centre to reclaim the land for a 'public purpose.'
According to the official notice, the land is deemed 'critically required' for vital defence infrastructure, governance facilities, and other public-security projects in the area. The order further stipulated that the L&DO would assume control of the premises on June 5, with provisions for police assistance if necessary during the takeover process.
A Symbol of India's Elite
Founded in 1913 during British colonial rule as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club, the institution has historically been a stronghold for India’s political, bureaucratic, and business elite. Situated in Lutyens' Delhi, close to the Prime Minister's residence and other key government buildings, it is renowned as one of the country's most exclusive private clubs.
Membership has traditionally been exceptionally difficult to secure, with reported waiting periods extending for decades. The club is also recognized for its distinctive colonial-era architecture, extensive lawns, dining establishments, and sports facilities.
Khemka's Stance and the Lingering Question
Writing on social media, Ashok Khemka stated, "Terminating the lease of Delhi Gymkhana Club is a bold move by government. The club sits on prime public land worth over ₹10,000 crores." He acknowledged the predictable resistance from the "entrenched elite" but posed a critical question: "The real question is: will Modi government stand firm, or eventually yield to elite pressure?"
Long-Standing Dispute
This latest government action is part of an ongoing conflict between the Centre and the club's administration. In recent years, the Union government intervened in the club’s management, citing concerns over alleged mismanagement and public interest. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs had previously approached the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), leading to a government-appointed committee overseeing the club’s operations. In 2024, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) upheld this intervention, further intensifying the dispute.