Synopsis
A CAG report reveals over Rs 33 crore spent, far exceeding the Rs 7.9 crore estimate, on renovating Delhi CM’s residence. The BJP highlights possible costs up to Rs 80 crore. Expenses include luxury items, with work extending until at least 2023. The report cites lack of documentation and irregularities.
AgenciesThe renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence has come under scrutiny, with a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report revealing that over Rs 33 crore was spent on the project by March 2022—far exceeding the initial estimate of Rs 7.9 crore, as per a TOI report.
The issue has become a focal point in the Delhi election campaign, with the BJP and Congress accusing the AAP leader of extravagance during the pandemic.
A sneak peak into Kejriwal’s ‘Sheeshmahal’
The CAG audit highlights several high-value items acquired for the bungalow at 6 Flagstaff Road.
Let’s take a look at these items:
- Among these are an 88-inch OLED TV costing Rs 28.9 lakh, ten 4K Sony OLED TVs for Rs 43.9 lakh.
- A Rs 3.2 lakh Samsung multi-door refrigerator, and Rs 6.5 lakh for two steam ovens.
- Other purchases included a washing machine for Rs 1.9 lakh, a microwave for Rs 1.8 lakh, and Rs 13 lakh spent on beds and sofas.
- The Public Works Department (PWD) installed additional luxury features, including a jacuzzi, sauna, and spa, at a cost of Rs 19.5 lakh.
- Furthermore, Rs 19.8 crore was spent on constructing seven servant quarters at a separate location.The bungalow, spread over 21,000 sq ft, includes eight bedrooms, three meeting rooms, two kitchens, and 12 bathrooms.
- Amenities installed include 75 Bose ceiling speakers and 50 indoor air conditioners in spaces like the gym, kitchen, and even the toilets.
- Additionally, Rs 18 crore was spent on “superior specification” and “antique” items, which were added as extra works without proper tendering.
BJP alleges higher costs
While the CAG report lists Rs 33.86 crore as the expenditure up to 2022, BJP’s Delhi president Virendra Sachdeva claims the actual cost is much higher. Speaking at a press conference, Sachdeva alleged that expenses for 2023 and 2024 have not been included in the report. “The real cost runs up to Rs 75-80 crore if the inventory of items in the bungalow is considered,” he said, as per an ANI report.
Also Read: AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal counters jabs, says BJP is real disaster
Sachdeva referred to the renovated bungalow as “Sheeshmahal” (glass palace) and criticised the splurge during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also raised the issue during recent campaign events, emphasising the timing of the expenditure.
CAG findings raise concerns
The CAG report has flagged significant irregularities in the renovation process. It noted that the PWD revised preliminary cost estimates four times and failed to conduct a feasibility study for the remodelling.
Also Read: AAPda, Sheeshmahal: Modi’s dig at Arvind Kejriwal
The audit also highlighted the diversion of Rs 19.8 crore intended for staff block construction. Instead, this amount was used to build seven servant quarters unrelated to the original project.
Furthermore, the PWD’s selection of three consultancy firms and five contractors was deemed arbitrary. The CAG report stated that the selection lacked transparency and was based on restricted tendering.
Political parties demand accountability
The BJP and Congress have both demanded explanations for the exorbitant spending, accusing the Kejriwal government of misusing public funds. Congress leaders have joined the BJP in calling for a detailed investigation into the expenditure.
The controversy comes at a critical time for the AAP, as it faces elections in Delhi. Opposition parties have used the issue to question Kejriwal’s governance and priorities during the pandemic, a period marked by widespread economic and health crises.
(With inputs from TOI, agencies)
