- Allegations: Gaurav Bhatia, a BJP leader, accused Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi CM, of constructing a lavish bungalow, referred to as the ‘Sheesh Mahal’. Bhatia claimed that the bungalow’s construction was funded with Rs 100 crores of black money invested by Kejriwal’s contractor and liquor businessman friends.
- Contradiction with Promises: Bhatia highlighted that Kejriwal had made a promise to the public, stating that he would not take a government bungalow and would live like a common man. However, Bhatia pointed out the contradiction, alleging that Kejriwal is now building a grand bungalow.
Alleged ‘Sheesh Mahal Scam’ Details:
- Investment Claims: Bhatia claimed that Rs 50 crores were spent on the construction of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’, with additional black money from contractors and liquor businessmen involved.
- Corruption Allegations: Bhatia called Kejriwal the “biggest corrupt brother” of all those involved in this alleged scam and accused him of being linked to contractors involved in over-invoicing, referencing a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
- Evidence: The BJP leader stated that the party would soon present proof and facts to substantiate the allegations.
BJP’s Election Strategy:
- War of Words: The accusations between the BJP and AAP have intensified as Delhi approaches its assembly elections, scheduled for February 5. Bhatia criticized Kejriwal for avoiding questions from the media and the public about the alleged scam.
- BJP’s Attacks: BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva also slammed Kejriwal, accusing him of failing to fulfill his promises, particularly regarding the government car, bungalow, and security commitments. Sachdeva mocked Kejriwal’s previous claim of swearing on his children to not take a government car or bungalow.
- Election Posters and Models: In response to the controversy, BJP has launched a campaign, placing posters of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ and displaying models of the mansion across constituencies in Delhi.
Electoral Context:
- AAP’s Dominance: The AAP has previously won two consecutive terms in Delhi with 67 and 62 seats out of 70, but now faces significant challenges from both BJP and Congress.
- Election Schedule: Delhi will vote in a single phase on February 5, and the counting of votes will take place on February 8.
Summary: The political climate in Delhi is heating up ahead of the assembly elections, with BJP accusing Arvind Kejriwal of hypocrisy and corruption in the construction of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’, which they claim involves black money. These allegations are part of a broader campaign as the AAP seeks a third consecutive term in power, with the BJP intensifying its attacks.