Delhi High Court Refuses Interim Stay on Centre's Order to Reclaim Gymkhana Club Land

The Delhi High Court has refused to grant interim relief to the Delhi Gymkhana Club against the Centre's order to reclaim its land. The court issued notices to all parties, while the government assured that no forcible eviction would occur without due legal process.

Tue May 26 2026

Delhi Gymkhana Club Faces Legal Setback Over Land Reclamation

The Delhi High Court has denied an application for interim relief by the Delhi Gymkhana Club against the Central government's order to terminate its land lease. This decision marks a significant setback for the club, as the court issued notices to all parties involved but refused to stay the government's order. The Centre clarified that its directive is not for forcible eviction but for the termination of the lease, assuring the court that all due legal procedures will be followed.

Government's Justifications for Reclaiming Gymkhana Land

The Indian government has outlined several reasons for seeking the return of the Gymkhana Club's land. Firstly, the club occupies a vast 27.2-acre plot in a highly sensitive and strategic area of New Delhi, located directly opposite the Air Force Race Course and adjacent to the Prime Minister's residential compound. Secondly, the government states the land is needed for defence infrastructure. Thirdly, it is required for other vital public security purposes. Fourthly, there are urgent institutional needs, and finally, the land is designated for integrated public interest projects. As it stands, June 5th is the deadline for the land to be returned to the government.