An RTI filing reveals that the Union government spent a record Rs 92 crore on repairing Delhi residences of Union ministers in the 2025-26 fiscal year, tripling the amount spent a decade earlier and sparking debate over public expenditure.

  • Rs 92 crore spent on repairs in 2025-26
  • Main causes: water seepage and termite infestation
  • Chief Justice of India calls for a halt on lavish repairs

An RTI response obtained by India Today shows that the government allocated a staggering Rs 92 crore for the repair and maintenance of Union ministers' bungalows in Delhi for the 2025-26 financial year. This figure eclipses the previous eleven-year high and marks a three‑fold increase over the average annual spend.

Historically, the average annual outlay for such repairs hovered around Rs 30 crore, rising to about Rs 60 crore in 2024-25. The sharp escalation has alarmed civil‑society groups and opposition parties, who are now demanding greater transparency in the use of taxpayer money.

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Detailed audits indicate that the bulk of the expense stems from structural issues—persistent water seepage, cracked walls, and widespread termite damage. Addressing these problems required extensive waterproofing, structural reinforcement, and pest‑control measures.

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) has publicly criticized the spending, urging the government to “stop fixing lavish homes.” Opposition leaders have echoed this sentiment, arguing that funds should be redirected toward pressing public services such as health and education.

The Ministry of Finance maintains that the repairs are essential for official residences but promises a new policy framework to curb future overspending. Nonetheless, analysts warn that such unchecked luxury spending could crowd out critical development projects, especially in a fiscal year marked by inflationary pressures.

Historical Background

Previous administrations also allocated funds for ministerial bungalow maintenance, but from 2015-16 to 2024-25 the average annual spend remained between Rs 28‑35 crore. The jump to Rs 92 crore in 2025-26 represents an unprecedented surge.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that unchecked expenditure on luxury official residences can erode public trust and divert funds from essential services, especially in a fiscal year marked by inflationary pressures.

"Excessive repair costs for government residences undermine democratic accountability and strain the national budget," says finance expert Dr. Ananya Mehta.
Did You Know?: In 2019, the total spend on Union ministers' bungalow repairs was just Rs 28 crore—one‑third of the 2025‑26 figure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are repair costs uniform across all Union ministers' residences?

A: No, costs vary based on each bungalow’s condition, size, and the extent of required work.

Q2: Is there a policy to reduce such expenditures?

A: The Finance Ministry has announced plans to issue stricter guidelines, including rigorous need‑assessment and capped budgets for future repairs.