- By Yashashvi Tak
- Tue, 21 Oct 2025 03:55 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Lokpal of India has invited tenders to purchase seven high-end BMW 330 Li (Long Wheelbase) cars for its members, each worth around Rs 70 lakh, according to reports. The bid submission window opened on October 17 and will close on November 6 at 3 pm, with evaluation beginning on November 7. The move, initiated on October 16, marks a significant procurement initiative by the anti-corruption ombudsman.
The notice reads, "The Lokpal of India invites open tenders from reputed Agencies for the supply of seven BMW 3 Series Li Cars to the Lokpal of India."
Sources indicate that the Lokpal of India has initiated a procurement process for seven new BMW vehicles, with the total cost expected to exceed Rs 5 crore. The move aims to enhance the institution’s operational and administrative efficiency.
According to the tender details, once the vehicles are delivered, BMW will conduct a minimum seven-day training programme for the Lokpal’s drivers and staff. The training, to be completed within 15 days of delivery, will include both practical and theoretical sessions on the vehicles’ systems, features, and safe operation. The schedule will be finalised in consultation with the Lokpal.
Lokpal BMW Tender Received Blacklashed
The Lokpal’s move has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with users, including activist-lawyer Prashant Bhushan, criticising the anti-corruption body.
“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!” Bhushan said.
The Congress youth wing expressed strong criticism, stating on X, “The Lokpal, once a symbol of accountability, now lies in ruins… Why is the government purchasing luxury foreign cars for a body still lacking key appointments?” Many users echoed the sentiment, questioning why the anti-corruption watchdog is indulging in the same opulence it is meant to scrutinise.
Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed also hit out at Lokpal. She wrote on X, “Lokpal wants to buy 7 luxury BMW cars worth ₹5 crore for itself. This is the same institution that was supposed to fight corruption after the so-called ‘India Against Corruption’ movement, a movement backed by the RSS and designed only to bring down the Congress government.”
About BMW 3 Series
The chosen model, the BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase, was launched in India earlier this year. As per the company’s website, it is the longest car in its segment, offering the most spacious second-row seating and a luxurious rear-seat experience.
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Lokpal Of India
Established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, the Lokpal of India is the first anti-corruption ombudsman institution empowered to investigate complaints against public functionaries. It comprises a Chairperson and eight Members, including four Judicial Members. The Chairperson’s service conditions are equivalent to those of the Chief Justice of India, while Members receive the same pay and allowances as Supreme Court Judges.