India, May 24 -- The Delhi Gymkhana Club, one of national capital's elite landmarks rooted in history, is in the crosshairs. The club, where the city's powerful and elite rubbed shoulders for nearly a century, is staring at possible dislocation with the government asking it to vacate the land by June 5 citing "securing defence infrastructure".

The expansive 27.3 acres, located at 2, Safdarjung Road in the heart of the capital, stands adjacent to the prime minister's residence and flanked by the country's most sensitive government establishments.

The news of the possible closure has triggered strong reactions, nostalgia and some backing government's proposal.

Former IPS officer Kiran Bedi, ex-R&AW chief AS Dulat, former diplomat KC Sing...