Will Delhi's most exclusive Gymkhana Club become a part of history? What order Centre has issued?
The Central Government has directed the prestigious Delhi Gymkhana Club—situated in Lutyens' Delhi, one of the national capital's most high-profile areas—to vacate its 27.3-acre land parcel by June 5. Located near the Prime Minister's residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, this land is expected to be utilized for projects related to national security and defense infrastructure.
Renowned for decades as one of Delhi's most exclusive clubs, the Delhi Gymkhana Club has long been associated with senior bureaucrats, politicians, diplomats, industrialists, and influential families. Obtaining membership at this club has traditionally been considered a difficult feat, requiring a lengthy waiting period and involving substantial corporate membership fees.
Area falls within a highly sensitive strategic zone
According to the government order, the entire land parcel must be handed over by June 5. Citing national security concerns, the Centre has stated that this area falls within a highly sensitive strategic zone. Officials have indicated that the land is required to bolster defense and security-related infrastructure.
Acting under the provisions of the existing lease agreement, the government has cancelled the club's lease and clarified that the land—including its buildings and sports facilities—will revert to the control of the President of India through a "re-entry" process.
According to sources, security agencies have been reviewing this area for some time, given its close proximity to the Prime Minister's residence and the regular movement of visitors and foreign dignitaries within the zone. The land may subsequently be utilized for the expansion of defense offices or for other sensitive entities related to national security.