Delhi Gymkhana Club Ordered to Vacate Historic Lutyens’ Delhi Site for National Security by June 5
New Delhi, May 24, 2026 — The Union Government has mandated the Delhi Gymkhana Club to transfer its 27.3-acre property at 2, Safdarjung Road, Lutyens' Delhi, to the Land and Development Office (L&DO) by June 5, 2026. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs issued the directive, citing the land's necessity for bolstering defence infrastructure, enhancing public security, and fulfilling essential governance and institutional requirements in a strategically sensitive area of the national capital.
The order, dated May 22, 2026, was addressed from the L&DO to the club's secretary. It refers to Clause 4 of the original lease agreement, empowering the President of India to terminate the lease and reclaim the land. The President of India, through the L&DO, will assume absolute ownership of the entire site, which includes buildings, lawns, and fittings, upon re-entry. The club was instructed to transfer peaceful possession to government representatives before the deadline, with legal measures to follow if necessary. The order was also communicated to the Deputy Commissioner of Police to ensure proper law-and-order arrangements.
The 27.3-acre site is located in the high-security zone of Lutyens' Delhi, adjacent to the Prime Minister's residence on Lok Kalyan Marg. The area is known for housing several critical central government and defence offices. The L&DO order highlights the land's importance for essential institutional needs, governance infrastructure projects, and redevelopment efforts involving nearby government properties.
Founded in 1913 as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club during the British rule, the club has operated at its current location since then, with most structures dating back to the 1930s. Renamed the Delhi Gymkhana Club post-Independence, it has historically served as an elite social and sporting institution blending administrative, military, and political circles. Membership is structured with a 40-40-20 quota among civil servants, defence personnel, and select civilians, maintaining a lengthy waiting list up to 37 years. The club is celebrated for its sporting facilities, including an extensive collection of grass tennis courts, and its role in hosting national championships and Davis Cup events.
The land was originally leased to the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd (now Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd) for nominal rent to serve as a social and sporting venue. Over the years, it became an informal hub for the city's elite.
| Reasons Cited by the Centre |
|---|
| Security Imperatives: The property's location near the Prime Minister’s residence necessitates enhanced defence and public security measures. |
| Public Interest and Institutional Needs: The land is needed for urgent governance infrastructure and public-interest projects, linked to the development of adjacent government land. |
| Land Ownership: The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs owns most leased land in Lutyens’ Delhi, allowing re-entry under lease terms for national priorities. |
Upon receiving the notice, the club’s Governing Council (GC) held an emergency meeting. They communicated to members their intention to respond promptly to the L&DO, seeking clarification on issues affecting members and employees. The club also requested an urgent meeting with officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
The club's statement indicated that ensuring uninterrupted operations is the GC's immediate priority. Further updates will follow after receiving a response. The club is committed to maintaining its functions amid this abrupt development.
Club members reacted with shock to the unexpected order. Reports suggest preparations for a legal challenge are underway, including gathering member support for a court petition against the eviction. Members argue for the club's historical significance and contest the absence of an immediate security threat necessitating such action. Some members have described the club as a "home" and "temple" for long-standing patrons, particularly affecting elderly retirees, raising concerns about losing its unique heritage and identity.
This development comes amid previous governance issues. In April 2022, the National Company Law Tribunal allowed the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to appoint directors to the club's general committee, citing alleged mismanagement. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal upheld these findings, stating the club's operations were not in the public interest, adding complexity to the ongoing situation.
As of May 24, 2026, the club awaits a response from the L&DO and Ministry while mobilising internally. The June 5 deadline remains in place, with the government asserting its legal authority to reclaim the land for national security and public purposes. The situation has sparked broader discussions on balancing the preservation of colonial-era institutions with the need for modern strategic requirements in the capital's core administrative area.
Both the club and government are expected to provide further statements as the situation develops.
