Lokpal Issues ₹5 Crore Tender to Buy 7 BMW Luxury Cars: Opposition Slams Move

The tender, released on October 16, is open to all eligible bidders. The last date to submit bids is November 7, with the bidding process commencing the same day.

BMW to Train Lokpal Staff

As part of the procurement plan, BMW will provide a 7-day training session for Lokpal drivers and staff after delivery. The training will focus on the vehicle’s features and safe operation.

The cars are being purchased to support the Lokpal’s administrative and logistical functions, according to officials.

About the BMW 330Li M Sport

The BMW 330Li is a long-wheelbase version of the BMW 3 Series, specifically tailored for the Indian market. It is assembled in Chennai and part of BMW’s 2025 line-up. With a starting price of ₹62.60 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes with luxury sedans like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.

Key features:

• Spacious rear seats with executive-style comfort.

• 258 hp petrol engine, offering powerful and smooth performance.

• Refined suspension for better handling and ride quality on Indian roads.

• Strong resale value and cost-effective maintenance due to local assembly.

About Lokpal: India's Anti-Corruption Ombudsman

The Lokpal of India is an independent statutory body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. It investigates complaints under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

The Lokpal consists of:

• One Chairperson (usually a retired Chief Justice or Supreme Court judge)

• Up to eight members, half of whom must be from the judiciary.

The current Chairperson is Justice (Retd.) Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar, appointed in March 2024.

Criticism from Opposition Parties

The move to buy luxury vehicles has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who have long questioned the efficiency and independence of the Lokpal.

• Congress and AAP have repeatedly alleged that the Lokpal is influenced by the ruling party due to the composition of its appointment committee.

• Critics also point to delays in appointment (the first Lokpal was appointed in 2019, six years after the law was passed) and slow complaint disposal.

Operational Challenges

The Lokpal has faced serious capacity issues since its inception:

• Staff shortage: Reports suggest only 30–40% of sanctioned staff are in place.

• Limited resources: Former member Justice Dilip Bhosale resigned in 2021, citing lack of adequate infrastructure and delays in investigations.

• A 2022 parliamentary panel highlighted slow complaint processing due to administrative gaps.