In what appears to be a temporary breather for the Indian National Congress, the party has managed to retain its historic headquarters at 24 Akbar Road — for now. Sources indicate that after informal discussions with leaders from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress has been granted an extension for a few months.
The extension, described as a “time-being arrangement,” came after backchannel negotiations involving senior functionaries from both the Congress and the ruling dispensation. While no official announcement has been made, insiders suggest that this understanding offers short-term relief but does not resolve long-term uncertainty surrounding the iconic address.
PLAN TO RETAIN 24 AKBAR ROAD
According to sources, the Congress is exploring options to retain the bungalow by getting it allotted in the name of a senior leader. Under existing norms, such “special category” bungalows can be allotted to former Chief Ministers or ex–Cabinet Ministers. In this context, names like Ashok Gehlot, Digvijaya Singh, and Kamal Nath are under consideration.
However, not all Congress offices may be able to secure similar relief. The party’s unit office at 5 Raisina Road, currently housing the Youth Congress and NSUI, is likely to face eviction.
RELIEF FROM SUPREME COURT ON JANTAR MANTAR PROPERTY
Amid these developments, the Congress has a significant legal victory to fall back on. The party has secured a ruling from the Supreme Court, making it the primary claimant to several properties contested during the split of the Congress in the 1970s.
Many party leaders believe this could include the old headquarters at Jantar Mantar. Based on the court’s order, the party is expected to reclaim possession of several properties, including some in Karnataka.
Party strategists are now considering shifting several frontal organisations to the Jantar Mantar premises once possession is restored, potentially easing the impact of losing other office spaces.
A HALF-WON BATTLE
While the extension at 24 Akbar Road provides immediate relief, the situation underscores the ongoing tussle over prime government accommodations in Lutyens’ Delhi.
For the Congress, the outcome can best be described as a “half-won battle” — a temporary victory that buys time but leaves the larger question of its institutional footprint in the capital unresolved.
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