NEW DELHI: In what is being seen as a shift in stance from that conveyed by its strongly worded letter to Delhi Gymkhana Club (DGC) to “hand over peaceful possession” of its premises on June 5, the Centre on Tuesday seemed more restrained in Delhi High Court, saying that it had given the date as an “option to the lessee to vacate on its own”.
Background of the Dispute
In the May 22 letter issued to the club by the Land Development Office (L&DO), which was also marked to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) and the Station House Officer (SHO) concerned of Delhi Police, L&DO had sought requisite action — “for making necessary police arrangements and providing adequate force to maintain law and order during the taking over of possession on June 5, 2026”. The letter was also marked to officials in L&DO and the Ministry of Urban Affairs.
In almost every case of eviction or repossession of premises, L&DO and other landowning agencies seek police presence to avoid any law and order situation. This standard practice, however, had heightened tensions among club members who interpreted the letter as a definitive takeover date.
Club Members' Concerns
Some of the club members said that their apprehension of the government taking over the land on June 5 was genuine, going by the content of the L&DO communication. “The letter said the premises shall be taken over by the L&DO on June 5, 2026, and the technical section of L&DO shall take possession on behalf of the government and secure the premises accordingly. The government clarifying its stand in the court has brought some relief for 14,000-odd members and nearly 600 employees,” said a former general secretary of the club.
Government's Justification
In DGC’s case, the government has sought repossession of the premises for “strengthening and securing defence infrastructure and other vital security purposes”. The Centre’s softened stance in court indicates a willingness to consider the club’s position, though the underlying security concerns remain paramount.
The Delhi High Court is expected to hear further arguments on the matter, with both sides likely to present their cases in detail. The club’s management has expressed hope that a negotiated settlement can be reached, avoiding any disruption to the club’s operations and the livelihoods of its employees.
