Govt says no coercive action in Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction proceedings until September 16

Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction: Centre assures no coercive action till September 16

New Delhi: The Centre has assured that no coercive action will be taken against the Delhi Gymkhana Club in connection with its eviction proceedings until September 16, providing temporary relief to the club as the legal dispute over its premises continues.

The development comes amid a challenge to the government's move to resume possession of the club's property in the national capital. The case has been under consideration before the Delhi High Court, where the club and its members have sought protection against immediate eviction.

Centre's eviction move under challenge

The dispute relates to an eviction order issued through the Land & Development Office (L&DO) under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

The Centre has maintained that the approximately 27.3-acre property, located in a strategically sensitive part of Delhi, is required for strengthening defence infrastructure and other public-interest and security-related purposes.

The government's order invoked provisions of the perpetual lease governing the property and provided for resumption of possession in accordance with law.

Club seeks protection from immediate eviction

The Delhi Gymkhana Club has challenged the government's action, arguing that an immediate eviction would disrupt its functioning and affect its members and employees.

The club has also sought protection while the legal challenge is being heard and has raised concerns about the consequences of abruptly vacating the premises.

Earlier, the Centre had told the High Court that possession would not be taken except in accordance with law.

Court proceedings continue

The Delhi High Court had earlier sought the Centre's response to petitions challenging the eviction proceedings. During the proceedings, the Union government assured the court that it would not take coercive steps until the next hearing.

The latest assurance extending protection until September 16 means the club will not face immediate coercive action while the matter remains before the court.

Why the Gymkhana Club property is disputed

The Centre has described the location as a "highly sensitive and strategic area" and said the land is required for defence and other public security purposes.

The government's position is that the lease terms allow it to re-enter and resume possession when the property is required for a public purpose.

The club, however, has contested the move and sought judicial intervention against the eviction.

What happens next

The legal battle is expected to continue as the Delhi High Court examines the competing claims of the Centre and the club.

For now, the government's assurance means that no coercive eviction action will be taken until September 16, giving the parties additional time to pursue the matter through the judicial process.