Government spending on Lutyens' bungalows sparks school funding debate

Data obtained through an RTI query reveals that the Indian government has spent over Rs 547 crore on the maintenance and renovation of Lutyens' bungalows in Delhi between 2014-15 and 2025-26. The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) manages these costs, which reached a record high of Rs 92.35 crore in the 2025-26 financial year. Officials attributed the rising costs to inflation and the upkeep of aging structures.

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) criticized the expenditure, stating that the recent annual bill alone could have funded 10 new world-class government schools. Through its ‘School Thik Karo’ campaign, the party urged the Centre to prioritize educational infrastructure over the upkeep of official residences.

In response to protests led by the CJP, the Rajasthan government has announced a Rs 12,500 crore roadmap for the 2026-29 period. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma stated the plan aims to overhaul government schools by constructing new buildings, classrooms, and toilets.