Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Lokpal of India, tasked with investigating corruption in public offices, is under public scrutiny after issuing a tender to purchase seven BMW 3 Series Li luxury sedans, each worth ₹70 lakh. The high-end vehicles are meant for use by all members of the Lokpal, including Chairperson Justice (Retd.) Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar.
Tender Details and Driver Training Clause
According to the October 16 tender notice, the Lokpal invites bids from reputed agencies for supplying the vehicles, with the validity of offers set for 90 days from the date of opening. The tender also includes a mandatory seven-day training program for Lokpal drivers and staff, to familiarize them with the vehicles’ advanced electronic systems and features.
Backlash from Civil Society and Political Leaders
The announcement has triggered intense criticism online and from civil society. Prashant Bhushan, senior lawyer and activist, slammed the Lokpal for indulging in luxuries instead of combating graft. He posted on X, “The government has ground the Lokpal to dust by appointing servile members… They are now buying 70L BMW cars for themselves!”
Echoing similar sentiments, the Congress youth wing questioned the priorities of the government, stating, “The institution of Lokpal, once a symbol of accountability, lies in ruins. Why is the government buying luxury foreign cars for a body that is missing key appointments?”
Social Media Reactions Mock ‘Simplicity’
Users on social media ridiculed the move with biting sarcasm. One user wrote, “They (are) buying a car worth ₹70 lakh. They can even buy a Rolls Royce worth ₹12 crore… but they are not, because they are simple, down-to-earth people. That is why they went for BMW instead…”
The tender notice has raised broader concerns about accountability, fiscal prudence, and the symbolism of a corruption watchdog indulging in luxury purchases.
