BJP, Congress hold on to Lutyens’ Delhi bungalows despite headquarters, raising questions

Despite constructing headquarters and being allotted land for offices, the BJP and Congress continue to occupy government bungalows in Lutyens’ Delhi, in violation of official norms. Both parties currently hold two bungalows each, long after deadlines set under the 2012 policy for vacating such properties, reported TOI.

The rules mandate political parties to vacate government accommodations within three years of being allotted land or completing office construction. Sources reveal that BJP occupies bungalows at 11, Ashoka Road, and 14, Pandit Pant Marg, even after inaugurating its headquarters on Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in February 2018. Congress, which recently completed construction of its office on Kotla Road, still occupies bungalows on Akbar Road and Raisina Road.

“The rule applies to all political parties. There is no indication when these bungalows will be vacated,” TOI quoted a source as saying, adding that six bungalows are currently under political use.


While the Congress plans to inaugurate its new office on January 15, it reportedly won’t vacate its current accommodations, citing the BJP's continued use of government properties.

In 2018, the housing ministry had issued notices to Congress to vacate four bungalows, of which two have been relinquished. Officials admit enforcing evictions remains a “sensitive” issue. Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated in 2022, “It’s in process. It will involve all political parties.”

Observers note the lack of enforcement raises concerns about accountability and adherence to norms by political entities.

(With inputs from TOI)