India’s government orders takeover of exclusive Delhi Gymkhana Club

Moves comes against backdrop of challenge by prime minister, Narendra Modi, to country’s traditional elites

India’s government has ordered one of the country’s most exclusive private clubs to vacate its premises in two weeks, underscoring the long-running push of the prime minister, Narendra Modi, against entrenched elite institutions.

The ministry of housing and urban affairs directed the Delhi Gymkhana Club to hand over its sprawling site in the heart of New Delhi by 5 June, citing urgent public interest requirements, including defence and security infrastructure.