Politics – Congress Asked to Vacate Historic Akbar Road Headquarters Soon
Politics – The Congress party has received an official directive to vacate its long-standing headquarters at 24, Akbar Road, marking a significant administrative step following its relocation last year.
The notice, issued by the Directorate of Estates, requires the party to vacate the prominent Lutyens’ Delhi bungalow by March 28. This move comes after the Congress formally shifted its central operations to its newly established headquarters, Indira Bhawan, located at 9A, Kotla Marg, earlier this year in January.
Eviction Notice Follows Earlier Communication
According to individuals familiar with the situation, the party had already been informally alerted about the matter nearly a month ago. The recent notice formalizes that communication and sets a clear deadline for vacating the premises. In addition to the Akbar Road property, the directive also applies to the Indian Youth Congress office situated at 5, Raisina Road.
Legal Options Under Consideration
Senior leaders within the Congress are currently reviewing the legal implications of the notice. Sources indicate that the party may challenge the order and seek interim relief through the courts. A legal team led by Rajya Sabha MP and noted Supreme Court advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi is examining possible courses of action to delay or contest the eviction.
Partial Shift to New Headquarters
Although the inauguration of Indira Bhawan was intended to consolidate party operations under one roof, several affiliated units have yet to fully relocate. Key organizations such as the Youth Congress, Mahila Congress, and the National Students’ Union of India, along with multiple internal departments, continue to function from their previous offices.
This incomplete transition appears to have contributed to the current situation, as authorities move to enforce existing property regulations.
Rules on Government-Allotted Properties
The Directorate of Estates, functioning under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has clear guidelines regarding property allocation for political parties. As per these rules, parties are not permitted to retain more than one government-allotted property within the Lutyens’ Bungalow Zone.
Once a party is granted permanent office space or land, it is required to relinquish any temporary or previously allocated premises. The directive to vacate 24, Akbar Road is in line with these regulations.
Historical Importance of 24, Akbar Road
The Akbar Road bungalow holds considerable historical and political significance. It became the headquarters of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) after the party’s electoral defeat in the 1977 Lok Sabha elections, marking a new phase in its organizational structure.
Beyond its political role, the property also has colonial-era roots. It was once occupied by Sir Reginald Maxwell, who served as the Home member in the Executive Council of Viceroy Lord Linlithgow during British rule. Over the years, the building has witnessed numerous key moments in India’s political history.
Transition Marks End of an Era
The potential vacating of 24, Akbar Road represents more than just a logistical shift; it symbolizes the closing of a long chapter in the Congress party’s institutional journey. As the party consolidates its activities at Indira Bhawan, the move reflects both compliance with regulatory norms and an evolving organizational framework.
For now, the focus remains on whether legal intervention will alter the timeline set by authorities or if the party will proceed with a complete transition before the deadline.