Supreme Court directs Delhi High Court to hear members' challenge to government takeover of Gymkhana Club
The Supreme Court asked the Delhi High Court to consider a petition by 11 Delhi Gymkhana Club members contesting the Centre's takeover of the club’s 27.3-acre site and related eviction actions.
On Monday, the Supreme Court instructed the Delhi High Court to hear a petition filed by eleven members of the Delhi Gymkhana Club challenging the central government's decision to take over the club’s 27.3-acre premises on Safdarjung Road. Senior advocate Vikas Singh told the bench, comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana, that the High Court had dismissed the members’ plea on the basis that only the club could contest the takeover.
The apex court allowed the members to proceed, pending any legal objections from the government. The members contend that a centrally appointed committee now runs the club and cannot represent its interests in court. The Centre, in a related filing, pledged not to enforce any coercive action before September 16.
The petition also asks to nullify a May 22 resumption order and a June 29 show-cause notice issued by the Land and Development Office. The case highlights a legal battle over the future of a historic private club and the limits of governmental authority over private institutions.
Why it matters
The ruling could determine whether private club members can legally challenge a government takeover of their property.
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