The Centre has initiated proceedings to evict the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club from its 27.3-acre premises in Lutyens’ Delhi, contending that the land is public property vested in the Union government and required for defence infrastructure and other public purposes.
In a plaint filed before the Estate Officer, the Union government invoked Clause 4 of the 1928 perpetual lease deed governing the property on Safdarjung Road, arguing that the land is needed for defence infrastructure, public security and institutional requirements.
Also Read | What the 15-day SIT extension means for the Ram Mandir donation probe
According to the government, the lease was formally terminated through a notice issued on May 22, 2026, directing the club to hand over vacant possession by June 5. However, the Delhi Gymkhana Club allegedly failed to comply with the order.
Centre says club’s occupation is now unauthorised
The Union government has argued that after the termination of the lease, the club’s continued occupation falls within the definition of “unauthorised occupation” under the provisions of the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.
The Centre has sought a declaration from the Estate Officer that the club is occupying the premises unlawfully and has requested an eviction order to facilitate the peaceful transfer of possession to the Union government.
The plaint also references earlier eviction orders issued by the Estate Officer on May 20, 2026, and states that the land is urgently required for governance, institutional and defence-related purposes.
Gymkhana Club asked to respond by July 7
A show-cause notice issued by the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under Sections 4(1) and 4(2)(b)(ii) of the Public Premises Act has directed the Delhi Gymkhana Club to explain why an eviction order should not be passed against it.
The notice states that club representatives or authorised legal counsel must appear before the Estate Officer at 2.30 pm on July 7, 2026, and present evidence supporting their defence.
Authorities have also warned that if the club fails to appear, the matter may proceed ex parte.
A 113-year-old institution at the centre of a legal battle
This property dispute that concerns the Delhi Gymkhana Club stands out among those that have happened recently because of the high-profile private club based in the national capital.
Also Read | Japan PM Sanae Takaichi arrives in India for maiden visit: AI, critical minerals, trade talks in focus
Earlier on, the Land and Development Office within the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs had revoked the club’s 1928 lease and ordered the club to leave the property.
As per the government, the strategic positioning of the land near the office of the Prime Minister makes it necessary to utilize the land to enhance the country’s defence mechanism and public safety.
The authorities have even cited claims of financial misconduct, taxes and other pending payments totaling to nearly ₹47.6 crore after the government increased the club’s lease fees from historical prices to current prices.
As yet, there has been no reaction from the Delhi Gymkhana Club on the latest eviction notice.
FAQS
Q1. What is the reason for evicting Delhi Gymkhana Club?
As per the government, the land belongs to the public and will be needed for defence and other institutional reasons.
Q2. When must Delhi Gymkhana Club respond to the notice?
The club has been directed to appear before the Estate Officer and submit its response by 2.30 pm on July 7, 2026.
