India, Oct. 8 -- New Delhi

Delhi High Court judge Prateek Jalan on Wednesday recused himself from hearing petitions challenging the Centre's notice directing the iconic Delhi Gymkhana Club (DGC) to vacate the premises, citing "personal interest" in the matter.

On May 22, the Centre had issued a notice directing the club to hand over its premises at 2, Safdarjung Road, to the Land and Development Office (L&DO) by June 5, invoking a public purpose clause in the original lease deed.

"I will recuse in this. There are matters when one does not trust one's own judgement. I would be more comfortable if somebody else hears this. There is so much personal interest involved. Subject to appropriate orders, list before another bench on Friday," ju...