DoPT Withdraws Recognition of Central Secretariat Club (CSC)

The Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) has withdrawn the recognition granted to the Central Secretariat Club (CSC), New Delhi, citing persistent irregularities, governance failures, and the absence of a legally valid Executive Committee (EC). The decision was conveyed through an Office Memorandum dated 24 February 2026.

Background of the Central Secretariat Club

The Central Secretariat Club, established in 1919, is a registered society functioning from 7–10 Park Street, Talkatora Road, New Delhi on government land allotted by the Directorate of Estates. The club has around 650 members, comprising serving and retired Central Government employees, and is managed by an Executive Committee elected annually.

Recognition and de-recognition of the Club fall under DoPT’s jurisdiction. The Club had previously faced derecognition in 1971 and 1983 following complaints of irregularities before recognition was restored in 2005 after review.

Irregularities and Governance Issues Noted

DoPT observed multiple irregularities over the years, including:

Failure to conduct EC elections annually as mandated by the Club’s constitution
Long gaps in elections, with earlier polls held only in 1998, 2002, 2006 and 2013
Complaints of misconduct, misuse of position and financial irregularities among office bearers
Grievances related to management functioning and alleged illegitimate activities
Lack of compliance with DoPT advisories and constitutional provisions of the Club

To address these issues, DoPT had constituted an Ad-hoc Administrative Committee (AAC) in March 2023 to oversee operations and streamline functioning while preserving recreational facilities for government employees.

Election Delays and Loss of Legitimacy

Fresh EC elections were held in July 2024, but subsequent complaints continued. Despite repeated DoPT instructions in 2025, the General Secretary did not initiate the next election process or issue notifications.

Since the EC elected on 14 July 2024 had a one-year term, its tenure expired on 13 July 2025. As new elections were not completed, no office bearer or EC member retained legal authority to run the Club after 14 July 2025, effectively rendering the management invalid.

Additional Complaints Against the Club

The memorandum lists several serious concerns reported by members and authorities, such as:

Internal disputes and exclusion of certain members from decision-making
Denial of CCTV access and disrespectful behaviour towards DoPT nominees
Unjustified delays in granting membership and inaction against unauthorized occupants
Encroachments on government property and non-compliance with policy directives
Reports of unauthorized canteen operations, gambling activities, and alcohol consumption on premises
Allegations of discriminatory treatment towards low-staff members

The Club was also criticised for failing to respond to official communications and for operating in a manner contrary to its staff-welfare objectives.

Decision to Withdraw Recognition

After reviewing persistent violations and noting the absence of a valid management body, the Competent Authority decided to revoke recognition of the Central Secretariat Club with immediate effect. The decision aligns with the conditions laid down in DoPT’s earlier recognition order of December 2005.

Authorities concerned have also been asked to initiate necessary action, including eviction proceedings, where required.

Implications

The withdrawal of recognition is expected to impact the functioning of the Club and its access to government premises and support. The move underscores DoPT’s emphasis on accountability, adherence to constitutional provisions, and proper utilisation of government property meant for staff welfare.

View OM: