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India’s anti-corruption watchdog Lokpal has cancelled its tender to purchase seven BMW 3 Series luxury cars worth nearly ₹5 crore after facing strong criticism from opposition parties and civil society. The controversial proposal, issued in October 2025, was meant for the chairperson and members.
Controversy Forces Lokpal to Withdraw Luxury Car Purchase Plan
New Delhi: The Lokpal, the constitutional body tasked with overseeing anti-corruption efforts, has finally cancelled the controversial tender for the purchase of seven luxury BMW cars. This decision was confirmed by officials on Thursday. The tender had been under intense criticism from opposition parties and civil society for the past two months.
According to officials, the full bench of the Lokpal passed a resolution after deliberation on the matter, deciding to cancel the tender. A formal amendment, or corrigendum, was subsequently issued on December 16, 2025.
The now-cancelled procurement plan was issued on October 16, 2025. It invited bids from reputed automobile companies for the supply of seven BMW 3 Series 330Li cars. These cars were intended for the use of the Lokpal chairperson and its six members.
The tender specifically requested BMW 330Li M Sport variants, with a long wheelbase and in white color. The total on-road price of these seven vehicles in Delhi was estimated at approximately ₹5 crore.
Currently, the Lokpal is headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice A.M. Khanwilkar. The institution can have a maximum of eight members in addition to the chairperson, including four judicial and four non-judicial members.
The news of the purchase of luxury cars like BMWs sparked a political controversy. Opposition parties questioned whether the purchase of such expensive vehicles by an anti-corruption body sent the wrong message to the public. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh sarcastically dubbed the Lokpal "Shaukpal" (a body driven by extravagance).
He alleged that the institution was prioritizing luxury over simplicity and transparency. This criticism was not limited to political circles. Several civil society activists and former senior bureaucrats also criticized the decision as unfair.
The cancellation of the tender by the Lokpal, following continuous protests and criticism, is considered a significant step. This decision is seen as crucial in maintaining the institution's public image and credibility.
