Delhi Gymkhana Club, the most aspirational club of the country has always stirred discussion, it is of no surprise that government decision to close it has caused a major stir and divide among the people. Amid this ongoing debate over the Government’s decision, Whispers in the Corridors conducted a survey to gauge public opinion asking a simple question “Do you support the Government’s decision to close Delhi Gymkhana Club?” and subsequently to reason.

The survey revealed that nearly 68% of respondents supported the Government’s decision, citing concerns over the use of prime public land, elitism and hereditary membership practices. Respondents pointed out that the club occupies 27.3 acres of prime real estate in Lutyens' Delhi at a nominal annual rent, a figure many described as a “pittance.” Many argued that a valuable government asset should not remain accessible to a select few. “Public resources cannot be used to cater to few elites” remarked one respondent. With national security concerns now citing the proximity to the Prime Minister's new residence, many felt that maintaining the club in its current form was unviable. “National security is supreme.”

Hereditary membership emerged as the second biggest topic. Multiple respondents highlighted what they called the "Green Card" system ,a scheme allowing children of members continued access to club facilities, while ordinary applicants wait decades in queue. “Should this kind of hereditary membership be allowed in today's day and age?” one respondent asked pointedly

At the same time, around 29% of respondents opposed the move, arguing that the 113 year old Delhi Gymkhana Club is a heritage institution that deserves preservation rather than closure and once demolished, cannot be rebuilt. “The Delhi Gymkhana Club should not be closed. Institutions like these are living parts of our national heritage” wrote one participant. Another observed “Closing the Delhi Gymkhana Club would mean erasing a living institution that embodies history, heritage and civic tradition.”

While Some called the club environment friendly “In congested Delhi, full of concrete structures, where pollution is a major issue, we need to continue the open spaces that we have. These are the lungs of Delhi.” Others raised the questions on illegal slums “There are millions of illegal slums and shops across the country which just popped up on prime public land. They are regularised and compensated. Legal leases on the other hand are questioned. It’s all convenience and optics”

A small group of respondents 3% remained undecided, suggesting reforms instead of closure. “It would be better to shift it to a conveniently located place with rationalized and democratic entry rules” one respondent suggested.

The survey painted a picture where a larger group of people are in sync with governments direction while another group is concerned about the historic value of the institution.