India's Lokpal Seeks BMW Luxury Cars Worth Rs 70 Lakh Each Amid Public Outrage

The Lokpal, India's anti-corruption ombudsman, has issued a tender to purchase seven BMW luxury sedans, each valued at Rs 70 lakh, for its seven members including Chairperson and former Supreme Court Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar.

According to media reports, BMW will be required to provide a week-long training program for Lokpal drivers and staff, covering the vehicles' electronic systems and operational features.

An official notification dated October 16 states: "The Lokpal of India invites open tenders from reputed Agencies for supply of seven BMW 3 Series Li Cars to the Lokpal of India." The tender offers will remain valid for 90 days from the opening date.

This announcement has triggered significant backlash online, with activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan among the vocal critics condemning the anti-corruption body's decision.

Bhushan claimed the government has "ground to dust" the Lokpal institution "by appointing servile members who are not bothered by graft and are happy with their luxuries. They are now buying 70L BMW cars for themselves!"

The institution of Lokpal has been ground to dust by the Modi govt, by keeping it vacant for many years & then appointing servile members who are not bothered by graft & are happy with their luxuries. They are now buying 70L BMW cars for themselves!

The Congress' youth wing also criticized the move, 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?"

Lokpal bying 7 BMW to boost make in India concept.Thyey buying 70 lakhs car , they can buy even 12 crore rolls-Royce, they are not because they are simple down to earth people that's why they went for BMW instead of

Social media users expressed sharp criticism of the decision. One X user sarcastically remarked, "They (are) buying a car worth Rs 70 lakh. They can even buy a Rolls Royce worth Rs 12 crore... but they are not, because they are simple, down-to-earth people. That is why they went for BMW instead..."