The Government has taken back 49 official residences previously allocated to Ministers and Deputy Ministers under its policy to end the free allocation of State bungalows to political authorities, The Daily Morning learns.

The move was confirmed in a response to a Right to Information (RTI) request submitted to the Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry.

According to the Ministry, a total of 264 official residences are currently maintained under its purview. Of these, four had been allocated to former Presidents, while 49 were assigned to Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

The remaining houses continue to be allocated to other categories of officials, including those in scheduled posts, Executive grade public officers, officers attached to the Presidential Security Division, Ministry staff within salary categories MN One to MN Seven, and personnel attached to various Government institutions.

The Ministry confirmed that while residences allocated to Ministers and Deputy Ministers have now been reclaimed in line with the Government’s policy, no changes have been made to allocations for other categories, including public servants.

The decision follows a broader policy shift by the current administration on the use of State-owned residences.

Official bungalows for Ministers and Deputy Ministers had been under review since the Government assumed office in 2024, with steps taken last year (2025) to discontinue the practice.

The move is aimed at ensuring more productive and efficient use of State assets.