Political Clash in Delhi Assembly Over Ex-Chief Minister's Residence Expenses

A contentious debate unfolded in the Delhi Assembly as BJP and AAP leaders clashed over alleged excessive spending on the former Chief Minister's residence. The controversy revolves around renovation costs that far exceeded initial estimates, leading to accusations of public fund misuse. BJP leaders have labeled the residence as 'Sheesh Mahal' to underscore claims of extravagance. A recent CAG report has further highlighted irregularities in the renovation process, raising questions about accountability. This political drama continues to unfold as both parties prepare for the upcoming elections.
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Political Clash in Delhi Assembly Over Ex-Chief Minister's Residence Expenses

Intense Political Debate in Delhi Assembly

A heated political debate erupted between leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Delhi Assembly regarding alleged expenditures related to the former Chief Minister's official residence. This controversy centers on the renovation costs of the residence located at Flagstaff Road, which was previously occupied by Arvind Kejriwal, the former Chief Minister of Delhi. BJP leader and Delhi minister Parvesh Verma staged a dramatic protest in the assembly, presenting a lengthy bundle of receipts to highlight what he termed excessive public spending.


Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds

During the session, Verma likened the alleged expenses to a situation involving a notorious bandit and accused the previous administration of misusing public funds. BJP representatives have repeatedly referred to the residence as a 'Sheesh Mahal' to emphasize claims of extravagance. In a nearly 15-minute video shared on social media, Singh was seen touring the bungalow at Flagstaff Road, which served as Kejriwal's official residence from 2015 to 2024. The BJP has derogatorily labeled it as 'Sheesh Mahal' due to alleged corruption, with Singh detailing the costs of various amenities such as a jacuzzi and chandeliers.


Details of the Renovation Costs

In the video, Singh revealed that automatic sliding doors and curtains cost ₹90 lakh, while the bungalow features a glass roof, two fully equipped kitchens, Belgian crockery, fitness equipment imported from the USA, a lift for transporting food, and a dining table with 14 seats for a family of six. He claimed that the total cost of the bungalow was ₹80 crore, and although there were plans for expansion, these were thwarted by the AAP's anticipated defeat to the BJP in the 2025 assembly elections.


CAG Report Highlights Irregularities

A report presented in the Delhi Assembly on Monday by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) pointed out various irregularities in the bungalow's renovation. The renovation was completed at a staggering cost of ₹33.66 crore, significantly higher than the estimated ₹8 crore.


Public Reaction