Opposition party slams record spending on ministerial bungalows

The government's expenditure on upkeep, renovation and repair of Union Ministers' official bungalows has reached a record ₹92.35 crore in the 2025-26 financial year, triggering renewed debate over allocation of public funds.

The opposition Cockroach Janta Party has questioned the spending, arguing that resources of this magnitude should be directed towards improving educational infrastructure across the country. The party's statement underscores a broader criticism about the distribution of budgetary resources between ministerial amenities and essential public services.

Union Ministers' official residences, located primarily in New Delhi's premium localities, have traditionally required substantial maintenance given their age and scale. However, the sharp increase in this year's allocation has intensified scrutiny of government spending priorities during a period when several states continue to struggle with inadequate school facilities and educational infrastructure.

The issue highlights the ongoing political discourse in India regarding the balance between administrative comfort and public welfare spending. Opposition parties have consistently used such budget allocations as ammunition to challenge the government's commitment to developmental priorities, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors.