Chidambaram Questions Lokpal's Luxury Car Purchase amidst Anti-Corruption Efforts

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram criticizes Lokpal's move to buy luxury BMWs, questioning its necessity and expense. Despite Lokpal's anti-corruption mandate, Chidambaram challenges the expenditure, noting Supreme Court judges use more modest vehicles. Bids for the cars, costing over Rs 5 crore, begin evaluation soon.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram has raised concerns about the Office of Lokpal's decision to buy seven BMW 330 Li luxury cars. On Wednesday, he questioned the necessity of such a purchase, pointing out that Supreme Court judges manage with more modest sedans.

Criticizing the use of public funds for luxury vehicles, Chidambaram expressed hope that some Lokpal members would avoid using the cars. "When Honourable judges of the Supreme Court are provided modest sedans, why do the Chairman and six members of the Lokpal require BMW cars?" Chidambaram stated on social media.

The process of procurement through a public tender began on October 16, with evaluations scheduled for November 7. The purchase aligns with Lokpal's goal to improve its logistical support, despite controversy over its cost, expected to exceed Rs 5 crore. This follows the Lokpal's mandate as an independent anti-corruption body set under legislation motivated by the 2010 Jan Lokpal movement.