The Indian government ordered the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its historic Lutyens’ Delhi premises by June 5, 2024 [2].

The move signals a prioritization of national security and defense infrastructure over the tenure of one of the city's most exclusive social institutions. Because the property is located near the Prime Minister’s residence, the government considers the land vital for public-security purposes [2].

The order was issued by the Land and Development Office under the Union Government's Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs [1]. The historic site covers 27.3 acres [1]. The government said the land is required for strengthening defense infrastructure and vital public-security needs [1].

This eviction order has created significant uncertainty for the club's workforce. Approximately 600 employees may be fired as a result of the premises being handed over [3].

The Delhi Gymkhana Club occupies a prime location in the heart of the capital. The government's decision to reclaim the land highlights the increasing pressure on Lutyens' Delhi real estate for state use, especially for security enhancements around high-profile government zones [2].

“The land is required for strengthening defence infrastructure and vital public-security purposes.”

The reclamation of the Delhi Gymkhana Club's land reflects a broader trend of the Indian government consolidating control over high-security zones in Lutyens' Delhi. By prioritizing defense infrastructure over long-standing institutional leases, the state is effectively tightening the security perimeter around the capital's administrative core.