Delhi High Court declines interim relief to Gymkhana Club
New Delhi: The Delhi high court on Tuesday refused to pass any interim order restraining the Centre from acting on its directive asking the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its premises by June 5.
The Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured that there would be no “forcible possession” or sudden takeover and that any eviction would be in accordance with law and after prior notice.
Justice Avneesh Jhingan refused to pass any interim orders against the government's order of 22 May.
"The issue is premature and presumptive. As on date, there is nothing on record to substantiate that action under Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act has been taken and in case the need so arises, the plaintiffs can avail remedies in accordance with law.
"In view of the statements made by the SG, no further interim directions are called for. The statement is to the effect that the eviction, if so, will be done following a prior notice.
At the cost of repetition, the apprehension that the club governing body may hand over the possession of the club is contrary to the stand taken by the club."
The suits in the High Court were filed by Vijay Khurana, a longstanding member of the club, and the other by the Staff Welfare Association of the Delhi Gymkhana.
Both the suits challenged the Central's order directing the club to vacate the 27.3-acre premises in Lutyens Delhi by 5 June.
