Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has raised serious allegations against former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing them of misappropriating public funds during the renovation of Kejriwal’s official residence. The residence, referred to as the “Sheeshmahal” by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has come under scrutiny following Gupta’s remarks made during a session at the Vidhan Sabha. She claimed that Kejriwal withheld a critical report regarding the renovation for several years, all while promoting an image of a common man among the public.

Details of Lavish Renovations

During her address, Gupta detailed numerous extravagant additions made to the residence, highlighting the installation of approximately 50 air conditioners and 70 ceiling fans. She pointed out a lift that reportedly cost Rs 7 lakh, which is said to be used for transporting food between floors. Additionally, an 18 lakh coffee machine and a sophisticated climate control system were alleged to be part of the renovations. Gupta visited the residence alongside BJP leader Parvesh Verma and emphasized that other government properties appeared significantly less luxurious in comparison.

Citation of Past Controversies

In her remarks, Gupta referred to past criticism directed at former Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, who faced backlash over what was viewed as lavish spending for a maximum of 10 air conditioners at her own residence. Gupta contrasted this with the number installed at Kejriwal’s home, drawing attention to what she characterized as hypocrisy in the current administration’s spending habits.

Calls for Investigation into Other AAP Leaders

Gupta went further to point out alleged excessive renovation costs for residences associated with other AAP leaders. She cited expenditures including Rs 7.5 crore for Manish Sisodia, Rs 2 crore for Rakhi Birla, Rs 3 crore for Ram Niwas, Rs 1 crore for Saurabh Bhardwaj, and Rs 67 lakh for Atishi. According to Gupta, these figures indicate severely misplaced priorities within the party and the government.

Timing of the Renovations

Linking these expenditures to the Covid-19 crisis, Gupta criticized the spending habits of AAP leaders, suggesting that such renovations occurred while the general public struggled to access essential services like oxygen and healthcare. She expressed concern that the focus of public officials appeared to be on luxury renovations rather than effective governance during a critical time. Gupta called for an accountability investigation into the alleged expenditures and underscored the need for it to be submitted to the Public Accounts Committee for further examination.

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