The staff welfare association of the Delhi Gymkhana Club has voiced concerns over job security as legal proceedings unfold in the Delhi High Court. On Tuesday, the association expressed hope for judicial intervention to safeguard employment and livelihoods.
Staff Demands and Concerns
Amit Acharya, general secretary of the staff welfare association, stated that the primary demand is the continuation of employment and uninterrupted club operations. He emphasized that the club employs 650 staff members, and including their families, approximately 6,500 to 7,000 people are affected. The community has been deeply distressed by the situation over the past few days.
Acharya noted that an interim relief, an eight-week stay order, provided temporary respite. He expressed gratitude to the High Court for considering staff concerns and urged that any final verdict ensures job security.
Nandan Singh Negi, president of the association, expressed confidence in the judiciary, highlighting that workers are hopeful for justice. He pointed out that many employees have taken housing loans and are worried about repayment. The matter involves the livelihoods of 600 to 700 workers, and the association respects the court's authority.
Legal Proceedings
Earlier in the day, the High Court issued summons to the Centre and the club management regarding civil suits challenging the government's move to reclaim the club premises at Safdarjung Road. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta clarified that the May 22 communication terminated the perpetual lease and sought re-entry under Clause 4 of the lease deed, but it was not an immediate eviction order. He assured the court that any eviction would follow legal procedures with due notice.
The High Court declined to pass further interim directions, noting the Centre's assurance. The court recorded the Centre's reliance on Paragraph 7 of the communication, which states that possession would be taken in accordance with law. The bench directed defendants to file written statements within eight weeks and listed matters for completion of pleadings.
Background of the Dispute
The dispute arises from the Centre's May 22 communication directing the club to hand over peaceful possession by June 5. The communication invokes Clause 4 of the perpetual lease deed from 1928, allowing re-entry if the premises are required for a public purpose.
The staff welfare association remains hopeful that the High Court will grant justice and preserve their livelihoods.
