A split has emerged within the 62-year-old Ellisbridge Gymkhana Club as members clash over a proposal to shift the club from its Law Garden premises to Ognaj. The controversy has now reached the City Civil Court, with a hearing scheduled on September 25—just two days ahead of the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 27, which is expected to be stormy.
Four members, including retired Gujarat High Court judges Justice S.M. Soni and Justice D.K. Trivedi, have filed a civil suit against the managing committee. They allege the relocation plan was pushed forward without the consent of the general body. The defendants named in the suit include president Anand V. Shah, vice-president P. Panneervel (retired IAS), and secretary Hareet Shukla (IAS).
Amid mounting protests, club president Shah has circulated a resolution assuring members that the current Law Garden premises will be retained, citing a renewed government lease. The committee has pledged to explore options, including purchasing the land, while stressing that the lease will not be surrendered.
The Ellisbridge Gymkhana, founded in 1962, has long been a hub for bureaucrats, judges, and professionals. With the legal challenge and upcoming AGM, the club now faces one of the most contentious moments in its history.