Lokpal's luxury ride: Anti-corruption body sparks controversy with Rs 5 crore BMW tender

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : The Lokpal of India, the country's highest anti-corruption body, has decided to purchase seven luxury BMW 330 Li (long wheel base) cars for its administrative and transportation needs. A public tender was issued on October 16th.

The estimated price of each car is said to be over ₹60 lakh, while the total cost is expected to exceed ₹5 crore. According to the tender, interested suppliers will have until November 7th to submit their bids, after which the evaluation process will begin.

Drivers will receive training along with the BMW cars

According to the information, these seven BMW 330 Li cars will have state-of-the-art safety and technology features. Following delivery, BMW will conduct a week-long training program for Ombudsman drivers and staff. This program will cover vehicle technical functions, safety standards, and operating guidelines, ensuring safe and efficient vehicle use.

What is the Lokpal?

The Lokpal is an independent anti-corruption authority in India, established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. The institution came into existence in 2010 under a law passed by Parliament following social activist Anna Hazare's Jan Lokpal movement. The Lokpal's current Chairperson is Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar, a former judge of the Supreme Court of India. The Lokpal is empowered to investigate allegations of corruption against the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Group A, B, C, and D officials of the Central Government. It can also investigate boards, corporations, trusts, or societies established by an Act of Parliament or funded by the Central Government, or receiving foreign aid exceeding ₹10 lakh.

The decision by an anti-corruption institution like the Lokpal to purchase luxury vehicles worth crores of rupees has sparked debate in political and social circles. Many experts say such institutions should set an example of simplicity and transparency. Meanwhile, the Lokpal administration maintains that this move was taken to ensure "administrative efficiency" and "security requirements."