Elites vs the government: Delhi Gymkhana Club ordered to move, triggering legal battle
One of India's most exclusive private clubs, situated right next to the Prime Minister's residence, is gearing up for a legal battle with the Indian Government after it was asked to vacate the land it has occupied for over a century.
The Delhi Gymkhana Club was founded in British India in 1913 and has a waiting list of more than 30 years for new members. Its members include powerful business executives, military officers, and senior civil servants.
The club has previously clashed with the government over its management, but authorities on Friday issued a letter seeking to take back the leased land due to security and infrastructure needs.
At risk are the club's stately bungalows, manicured lawns, teakwood interiors, and large hallways.
In a lawsuit running to more than 900 pages, according to Reuters, a group of members and employees has asked the Delhi High Court to halt the move until the legal challenge is resolved.
The government wants to "illegally gain possession of a hundred-year-old institution in a period of 15 days," the lawsuit said.
At a hearing on Tuesday, the club's lawyer urged the court to prevent authorities from taking action, while the government's counsel argued that no eviction would take place without due process.
The next court hearing is set for July.
