The anti-corruption watchdog Lokpal has withdrawn its controversial plan to purchase seven luxury BMW cars, a decision that comes nearly two months after the tender was issued and following widespread criticism from political parties and civil society groups. Officials confirmed on Thursday that the procurement process had been cancelled after the matter was reviewed by the full bench of the Lokpal, which subsequently approved the withdrawal through a formal resolution. A corrigendum reflecting this decision was issued on December 16, 2025.
The move gained significance as the proposal had sparked sharp reactions from opposition leaders and activists, who questioned the optics of an anti-graft body opting for high-end luxury vehicles. Critics had argued that the decision went against the spirit of austerity and transparency expected from an institution tasked with upholding integrity in public life.
The tender, floated on October 16, 2025, invited bids for the supply of seven BMW 3 Series 330Li luxury sedans. These vehicles were intended for official use by the Lokpal chairperson and six members of the institution, which can have up to eight members including judicial and non-judicial representatives. At the time, the estimated on-road cost of the vehicles in New Delhi was around Rs 5 crore, drawing public scrutiny over the scale of expenditure.
The specifications outlined in the tender had called for white-coloured BMW 330Li “M Sport” variants with a long wheelbase. The proposal also required the selected vendor to provide extensive training to drivers and staff, including classroom instruction and on-road sessions. The training was to cover vehicle controls, safety systems, driving modes, fuel efficiency practices, emergency handling, and operational familiarisation with the luxury cars.
The procurement decision had triggered sharp political reactions. Opposition leaders accused the Lokpal of prioritising comfort over credibility, with some terming the move inconsistent with the institution’s mandate to promote probity in public life. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh had derisively referred to the body as “Shauq Pal,” while former Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant publicly urged the Lokpal to scrap the tender and instead consider electric vehicles manufactured in India.
Amid growing criticism and public debate, the Lokpal ultimately decided to withdraw the tender altogether. Officials indicated that the decision was taken collectively by the full bench, signalling an attempt to put an end to the controversy and avoid further damage to the institution’s image.
