Centre orders re-entry, resumption of Delhi Gymkhana Club premises (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The Central Government has directed the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its 27.3-acre property located at Safdarjung Road in New Delhi by June 5, invoking its powers of “re-entry and resumption” under the original lease agreement.
The order was issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs through the Land and Development Office (L&DO), citing urgent public purpose, national interest and strategic infrastructure requirements.
According to the official order, the land occupied by the Delhi Gymkhana Club falls within a highly sensitive and strategic zone of the national capital. Authorities stated that the property is now required for strengthening defence infrastructure, governance-related facilities and other public-interest projects linked to nearby government land parcels.
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The Centre noted that the land had originally been leased to the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd., which later became the Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd., for the purpose of maintaining a social and sporting institution.
Invoking Clause 4 of the lease deed, the government said it has the authority to reclaim the property if it is required for a public purpose. Exercising these powers, the President of India, acting through the L&DO, ordered the termination of the lease and immediate re-entry of the premises.
The order states that the entire 27.3-acre plot, including all buildings, lawns, structures and fittings within the premises, will vest absolutely with the President of India through the Land and Development Office.
The Delhi Gymkhana Club has been instructed to hand over peaceful possession of the property to government representatives on or before June 5, 2026. Officials also stated that if possession is not voluntarily surrendered, the government will proceed in accordance with legal provisions.
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Established in 1913 during the British era, the Delhi Gymkhana Club is considered one of India’s oldest and most prestigious social clubs. Originally known as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club, it was renamed after Independence in 1947.
The club has historically been associated with prominent bureaucrats, diplomats, military officers and business leaders. Located in the heart of Lutyens’ Delhi, the property occupies one of the capital’s most high-profile and strategically significant areas.
The latest move by the Centre marks a major development involving one of Delhi’s most historic institutions and is expected to attract significant public and legal attention in the coming days.
