In a major facelift for legislators’ housing, the Gujarat government has completed a ₹220 crore residential project in the heart of Gandhinagar, offering luxury flats to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) at a symbolic rent of just ₹37.50 per month — cheaper than a packet of milk.

New Towers Set for Inauguration

The state-of-the-art residential complex, located in Sector 17, is set to be inaugurated on October 23 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, ahead of the legislators’ expected move-in after Diwali. The project marks a significant shift from the aging and dilapidated quarters that previously housed MLAs.

Luxury Redefined for Lawmakers

Spread over 28,576 square metres, the complex includes 12 towers, each rising nine storeys high and housing a total of 216 flats. Of these, 126 premium flats have been exclusively designed for sitting MLAs. Each flat covers approximately 204 square metres and includes:

  • 3 Bedrooms (2 master suites)

  • Living and dining areas

  • Kitchen and office space

  • 3 attached bathrooms + 1 common bath

  • Dressing and waiting rooms

  • Private balcony

  • Separate servant’s room

High-End Furnishings and Modern Amenities

Each apartment comes fully loaded with:

  • 3 split air-conditioners

  • 43-inch LED TVs in living room and bedrooms

  • Refrigerator, gas geyser, and electric geyser

  • Set-top box connection

The complex doesn’t stop at plush interiors — it also features:

  • Two landscaped gardens

  • Children’s play area

  • Auditorium

  • Health club

  • Community canteen

  • Swimming pool

  • Multipurpose and community halls

  • Four entry/exit gates for smooth traffic flow

  • Two elevators per building

Symbolic Rent Sparks Public Curiosity

While the flats boast five-star facilities, the monthly rent for MLAs is just ₹37.50, a token amount that has sparked both admiration and debate. That’s ₹1.25 per day, less than the cost of a 500ml packet of milk — drawing attention to the privileges of public representatives.

Background: Out With the Old

The previous MLA quarters had long been criticized for their poor condition, prompting the state government to invest in a large-scale modernization initiative. Officials have positioned this as a necessary move to ensure comfort and functionality for lawmakers, who often work extended hours while in session.

Public Reaction and Political Optics

While the project demonstrates the state’s commitment to infrastructure upgrades, the extremely low rent and high-end amenities have raised eyebrows among citizens and opposition leaders, with calls for transparency and parity with public housing standards.