Congress leader Rashid Alvi on Sunday criticised the Central government over its recent order directing the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its premises, alleging that the move was connected to Rahul Gandhi's membership of the historic club located in central Delhi.
Alvi's Allegations
Alvi described the development as unfortunate. He stated, 'It is such an old club and many important people are members. The fact that Rahul Gandhi is a member of the Delhi Gymkhana Club is enough to destroy it.' He further alleged, 'What can be a greater fault of the Gymkhana Club committee than that it made Rahul Gandhi a member and did not make people considered close to the Prime Minister as members. This is enough to demolish it and take it over.'
Government Order
The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry has asked the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate the premises by June 5, failing which possession would be taken in accordance with law. The club is located on Safdarjung Road, and the government has cited urgent public purpose and national interest considerations.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs issued the order on May 22 through the Land & Development Office (L&DO). According to the order, the land had originally been leased to the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd., now known as Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd., for the purpose of maintaining a social and sporting club.
Strategic Importance
The government stated that the premises fall within a 'highly sensitive and strategic area' of the national capital and are now critically required for strengthening defence infrastructure and other public security purposes. The Delhi Gymkhana Club has expressed a desire to continue its operations without dislocation.
The officiating secretary of the club has urged a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Historical Background
Founded on July 3, 1913 as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club, the institution originally catered to British administrators and military officers during the colonial period. After independence in 1947, the word 'Imperial' was removed from its name, while most of the current structures date back to the 1930s.
