Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Delhi High Court on May 26 that there will be no forceful possession of the Delhi Gymkhana Club's land on June 5. The assurance came in response to lawsuits filed by club members and staff against the Centre's May 22 order directing the club to hand over the premises.
Court's Response
Justice Avneesh Jhingan observed that no interim order was necessary given the Solicitor General's statement. The court was hearing petitions challenging the government's directive, which had sparked concerns among club members about immediate eviction.
Background of the Dispute
The Centre's order, issued under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971, demanded that the club vacate the land. The club, located in the heart of Delhi, has been a historic institution for decades. Members argued that the order was arbitrary and violated their rights.
The Solicitor General clarified that the government would follow due process and not resort to coercive action on the specified date. He emphasized that the Centre's intention was to ensure compliance with legal procedures, not to disrupt the club's operations abruptly.
Next Steps
The High Court listed the matter for further hearing on June 12. Meanwhile, the club's management has been advised to respond to the government's notice formally. Legal experts suggest that the case may set a precedent for similar disputes involving historic clubs and government land.
