Delhi High Court Seeks Centre’s Response on Pleas Challenging Delhi Gymkhana Club Eviction Notice

The Delhi High Court on Monday issued notice to the Centre on applications challenging a recent show-cause notice related to eviction proceedings against the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club.

The pleas were filed by long-time club member Vijay Khurana and the Delhi Gymkhana Club Staff Welfare Association, who have questioned the legality of the notice issued by the Estate Officer under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.

The disputed notice, issued on June 29, directed the club’s representatives to appear before the Estate Officer and explain why eviction proceedings should not continue following an earlier order. Authorities have argued that the club’s occupation became unauthorised after the Centre terminated its lease and exercised its right of re-entry into the property.

Journalists and camera crews stationed outside the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club in New Delhi.

According to the government, the land is required for projects related to defence infrastructure, public security and governance, citing the strategic importance of the site.

Hearing the matter, a bench led by Justice Avneesh Jhingan sought a response from the Centre and scheduled the next hearing for July 28. The court granted time to the government to file its reply after a request from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who appeared on behalf of the Centre.

During the proceedings, the Centre suggested that the petitioners could seek an adjournment before the Estate Officer regarding the scheduled appearance linked to the show-cause notice.

In their applications, the petitioners argued that the eviction notice was premature because their challenge to the Centre’s decision to terminate the club’s lease remains pending before the High Court. They contended that the legality of the lease termination has not yet been adjudicated and that further eviction proceedings should not proceed until the matter is resolved.

The petitioners also alleged that the Estate Officer failed to independently assess the circumstances before issuing the notice and instead relied solely on the government’s position regarding the lease termination.

Located at Safdarjung Road in central Delhi, the Delhi Gymkhana Club is one of the capital’s oldest and most prominent institutions. Established in 1913 during the British era, the club has remained a landmark social and recreational venue for decades.

The dispute began after the Centre directed the club in May to vacate its premises, citing public-purpose requirements and the strategic significance of the location. The government has maintained that the land is needed for infrastructure and security-related projects.

Earlier, the Centre had assured the High Court that no immediate possession of the property would be taken and that any eviction-related action would be carried out strictly in accordance with legal procedures and after providing prior notice.