New Delhi, June 2: The Centre has asserted that government-owned land leased to private institutions or organizations can be taken back whenever required for public purposes, amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Delhi Gymkhana Club. Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal said that land leased by the government remains under its ownership and can be resumed if needed for infrastructure projects, security requirements, or other public-interest objectives.

His remarks come shortly after the government asked the Delhi Gymkhana Club to vacate its premises in central Delhi, citing the need for the land for official purposes. The move has triggered a legal dispute and drawn attention to the government's powers over leased properties. Speaking on the issue, the minister said that lease agreements contain provisions allowing the government to reclaim land when necessary. He added that such decisions are taken based on administrative requirements and public interest considerations.

The Delhi Gymkhana Club, one of the capital's oldest and most prestigious institutions, has been operating from its current location for decades. The club occupies prime government-owned land in the Lutyens' Delhi area and has thousands of members, including former bureaucrats, military officers and business leaders.

The government's notice to the club has been challenged before the Delhi High Court. During recent proceedings, the Centre informed the court that any action regarding possession of the property would be carried out in accordance with the law and due process. The dispute has sparked debate over the future of long-standing institutions functioning on leased government land. While supporters of the government's move argue that public assets should be available for national and developmental needs, critics have questioned the timing of the decision and sought greater transparency regarding the proposed use of the property.

Legal experts note that the outcome of the Delhi Gymkhana case could have implications beyond a single institution. Several organizations across the country operate on government-owned land under long-term lease arrangements, making the case an important one in determining the scope of the Centre's authority over such properties. The matter remains under judicial consideration, with the Delhi High Court expected to hear further arguments in the coming days.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.