In a major move involving one of the Capital’s most exclusive institutions, the Centre has ordered a takeover of the historic Delhi Gymkhana Club at 2 Safdarjung Road, directing possession of the premises by June 5. The club said it would move the court against the Centre’s decision.The orders, issued by the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on May 22, say the 27.3-acre property is required for “strengthening and securing defence infrastructure” and other “vital public security purposes” in a strategically sensitive zone of New Delhi.The communication, addressed to the general committee and the secretary, Delhi Gymkhana Club Ltd, invokes Clause 4 of the original lease deed to terminate the lease and resume possession with immediate effect.“The premises, located in a highly sensitive and strategic area of Delhi, are critically required for the strengthening and securing of defence infrastructure and other vital public security purposes,” the order said.It further says the land is “essential to fulfil urgent institutional needs, governance infrastructure and public interest projects”.The Centre has directed the club to peacefully hand over possession on June 5, failing which “possession shall be taken in accordance with law”.The order also directs the Delhi Police authorities to make necessary security arrangements during the takeover process.“The entire plot of land measuring 27.3 acres, along with all buildings, standing erections, structures, lawns and fittings thereon, shall vest absolutely in the lessor — the President of India,” the order read.Situated in the heart of Lutyens’ Delhi near key government and diplomatic establishments, the club occupies one of the most prime and strategically located parcels of land in the national Capital.Originally established during the British era as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club, the institution has historically counted senior bureaucrats, military officers, diplomats and business leaders among its members.The latest development is expected to trigger a legal challenge from the club management, particularly because the government has cited national security and defence infrastructure requirements as the grounds for resumption.The move also comes amid increasing regulatory scrutiny involving the club in recent years.In July 2025, the Central Government Industrial Tribunal dealt with proceedings relating to provident fund compliance after the club’s exempted EPF status was withdrawn by authorities.As for today’s developments, the club management held a closed-door emergency meeting to discuss the government order.The management said they would move the court against the vacation order.A century-old elite club of IndiaFounded in 1913 as the Imperial Delhi Gymkhana Club during the British rule, the club evolved into one of India’s most exclusive social institutions after Independence. Spread across 27.3 acres on Safdarjung Road in Delhi, the club has long been associated with senior bureaucrats, diplomats, military officers and political elite.The Centre’s latest move to reclaim the land for defence and public security marks the biggest institutional challenge faced by the club in its 113-year history.