Under the lease deed, the lessor, that is the government, can resume and re-enter, or take back, the premises if it is required for a public purpose, the notice says. On May 22, the L&DO had written to the club saying the land was needed for strengthening defence infrastructure and other public projects.

“Despite lawful determination of the lease and despite being called upon to hand over possession, the respondent failed to vacate the premises and continues in occupation thereof…Because valuable government land situated in the National Capital cannot be permitted to remain under unauthorised occupation contrary to governmental determination and larger public interest,” it says.

The 27.3 acre plot was given on lease in 1928 for the Imperial Gymkhana Club, which became Delhi Gymkhana Club after Independence. While ending the lease on May 22, the L&DO had said it was “critically required for strengthening and securing of Defence infrastructure and other vital public security purposes. The land is essential to fulfil urgent institutional needs, governance infrastructure, and public-interest projects, integrated with the resumption of adjoining government lands.”

The L&DO had asked for the premised to be handed over by June 5, which led members to move the High Court. The court did not stay the process, but Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court the government would proceed as per procedure established under law.