The Centre's order directing the Delhi Gymkhana Club (DGC) to hand over its premises to the government marks the culmination of a governance dispute that had been escalating over six years. This followed a probe by the corporate affairs ministry into multiple violations and instances of mismanagement at the club.
Despite the long-standing issues, the move has taken club members by surprise, especially since just a few weeks ago, the Land and Development Office (L&DO) issued a notice demanding approximately Rs 47 crore in dues, including Rs 36 crore from revised lease rates. "There were discussions on how to address this. We never expected that the government had a different plan altogether, to get the premises vacated," said an anonymous member.
Background of the Club
The Delhi Gymkhana Club, a prestigious British-era institution, counts among its members Delhi's elite, symbolizing power and exclusivity. It features a swimming pool, 26 grass tennis courts, squash courts, dining rooms, restaurants, three bars, and five party venues. Membership allocation historically reserved 40% for civil servants, 40% for defence services, and 20% for others.
Controversies and Mismanagement
The club has faced several controversies, including the "green card" system, which gave preferential treatment to adult dependents of existing members, making it extremely difficult for outsiders to join, with waiting periods of 30-40 years despite high fees. Factionalism between defence and civil service members, fund embezzlement, and mismanagement have also been reported. Government agencies accused the club of straying from its original objective of promoting sports and pastimes. The Centre even criticized the earlier general committee in an appeal before the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT), alleging it turned DGC from a "vyayamshaala to a madhushaala" (from a gym to a tavern) and sought a government-nominated committee.
Government's Stance
A senior central government official noted that the club was necessary during the British era when recreational facilities were scarce for officers. "But now there is a sea change. We have malls, theatres, and other avenues for recreation. We need to put the prime land to the most efficient and productive use," he added.
Currently, the club is managed by a government-nominated committee appointed under the directives of the corporate affairs ministry and NCLT.
