Congress risks losing key decision-making centres in Delhi as eviction deadline nears

The Congress has been served eviction notices for two of its most prominent offices in New Delhi, with a March 28 deadline to vacate. The move puts pressure on the party to act quickly, as it considers legal action and internal measures to retain control over the properties.

Notices issued, deadline closes in

Eviction notices have been delivered for the party’s long-time national headquarters at 24, Akbar Road, and another major premises at 5, Raisina Road. Party functionaries said the notices arrived a few days ago, leaving limited time to respond.

The Akbar Road office has been occupied by Congress since 1978 and remains closely tied to its identity in the capital. The Raisina Road property houses the Indian Youth Congress and was allotted in the party’s name for its frontal organisation.

Despite shifting to a newer headquarters, Indira Bhavan near ITO, the party has continued to retain its older offices. Both locations are seen as central to its presence and functioning in Delhi.

Leaders within the party have acknowledged the urgency of the situation, describing the current phase as more serious than earlier instances. There is growing concern over whether Congress can continue to hold on to the two politically significant addresses.

Legal challenge and internal options under review

The party is preparing to challenge the eviction notices in court in a bid to prevent forced removal. Senior figures have indicated that all available legal routes will be explored.

At the same time, Congress is considering seeking additional time from the government to manage the transition. One possible approach under discussion involves reorganising the allotment of the bungalow. This could include moving a senior leader to the Rajya Sabha and securing the property in their name, allowing continued use under existing rules.

Such a move would require quick political and legal action before the March 28 deadline.

Party insiders have also stressed the importance of retaining both addresses, pointing to their historical and organisational value. The Akbar Road office, in particular, is regarded as part of the party’s legacy and has helped maintain its central presence in the capital.

Congress has been paying market rent for the Akbar Road bungalow. After the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, there was an attempt to have the property allotted to a senior party MP, but this did not materialise.

The possible loss of the two premises carries both symbolic and operational consequences, as they have long served as key centres for coordination and decision-making.