The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intensified its attack on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over the alleged “Sheesh Mahal” controversy, claiming extravagant misuse of public funds during the renovation of the CM’s residence.
Gold-Plated Toilets Allegation
BJP leader RP Singh showcased a replica of a “gold-plated” toilet at a press event, alleging that 12 such toilets were installed in Kejriwal’s official residence, each costing ₹1.44 crore.
“This is a gold-plated toilet. The Chief Minister had installed 12 such toilets in his house as part of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ project, worth ₹56 crores,” Singh claimed.
He questioned the ethics behind spending on luxury renovations while public infrastructure, including public toilets, remains inadequate in Delhi.
“The condition of public toilets in Delhi is deplorable. Instead of addressing such basic issues, this government misused funds for extravagant renovations during a time when the public was struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic,” Singh said.
Promise of Better Governance
Singh promised that, if elected, the BJP would prioritize building better public facilities, accusing AAP of exploiting the public with promises of “revdis” (freebies) while allegedly engaging in misuse of resources.
“We are saying that when our government comes, we will build good toilets and bathrooms. Delhi is being looted in the name of ‘revdis,'” he added.
Context of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ Controversy
The controversy revolves around allegations that Kejriwal spent ₹56 crores renovating his Flagstaff Road residence during the pandemic, with critics calling it an example of resource misuse while public projects stalled.
BJP’s Broader Critique of AAP
BJP leader Vijay Goel also weighed in, calling for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections to focus on pressing issues like:
- Dirty tap water
- Pollution in the Yamuna River
- Delhi’s worsening air quality
- Corruption allegations
“The announcements by Arvind Kejriwal are purely electoral gimmicks. After neglecting Delhi’s core issues for 10 years, he is now relying on populist measures to win votes,” Goel said.
AAP’s Defense and Response
The AAP has previously denied allegations regarding the “Sheesh Mahal” project, claiming that renovations were routine maintenance and did not involve any irregularities. While Kejriwal has yet to respond to the latest round of allegations, AAP leaders have dismissed BJP’s criticism as politically motivated and baseless.
Impact on Delhi Elections
As Delhi heads toward assembly elections, the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy is expected to dominate political debates. While the BJP positions itself as a champion of accountability and governance, AAP will need to address the allegations to maintain its image as a pro-people party.
This unfolding political battle underscores the heated contest between the two parties, with both seeking to capitalize on public sentiment ahead of the polls.