India Opposes Court Stay on Delhi Gymkhana Club Eviction

The Government of India opposed petitions in the Delhi High Court seeking to stay eviction proceedings against the Delhi Gymkhana Club. The dispute began when the government terminated the club's perpetual lease, dated February 28, 1928, via a notice on May 22, 2026. The government directed the club to vacate its 27.3-acre premises at 2, Safdarjung Road by June 5 to strengthen defense infrastructure and public security.

Following the termination, the Land & Development Office issued a show-cause notice for eviction on June 29. Club member Vijay Khurana and the Delhi Gymkhana Club Staff Welfare Association challenged this notice in court, arguing it was premature while the lease termination's validity remained under judicial review. The government countered that the takeover serves a public purpose and is not a compulsory acquisition, though it stated it is prepared to fulfill compensation obligations.

Government representatives argued that Section 15 of the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, bars civil courts from entertaining cases related to such evictions or granting injunctions against an Estate Officer's actions. The government asserted that any grievances must be raised during hearings before the estate officer. Justice Avneesh Jhingan has adjourned the proceedings until September 3 to allow the petitioners to respond to the government's affidavit.