Delhi CM Condemns 'Sheesh Mahal' Video as Verma Reveals Extravagant Expenditure Details
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta issued a sharp rebuke on Thursday in response to a video released by PWD Minister Parvesh Verma concerning the controversial former Chief Minister's residence, urging Delhi's citizens to witness what she termed the "reality" behind the so-called 'Sheesh Mahal'.
"You have been anticipating the 'Sheesh Mahal' for an extended period. Thus, this 'Sheesh Mahal' is intended for all of you. Examine the accomplishments of Arvind Kejriwal. He constructed this 'Sheesh Mahal' utilizing public funds. The manner in which he surpassed all boundaries of corruption is now evident to the people of Delhi. The residents of Delhi should observe the actions of the criminals in Delhi," Gupta declared.
Verma's Video Walkthrough Alleges Massive Public Fund Misuse
Her comments followed Verma's dissemination of a video titled "Dhurandhar 3 – Delhi ke sabse bade Rehman Dakait ki kahani", which he presented as a factual narrative of the bungalow located at 6 Flagstaff Road, linked to former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. This property has been a focal point of political dispute and is commonly known as 'Sheesh Mahal'.
As part of this endeavor, Verma executed an on-site walkthrough of the premises, meticulously recording interiors and significant attributes. He stated that the initiative was designed to foster transparency and enable the public to evaluate the magnitude of the expenditures.
"Delhi was assured of a politics characterized by simplicity and integrity. Citizens were informed that there would be no grand bungalows, no opulent lifestyles. What is observable here today starkly contrasts with those assurances," Verma emphasized.
Detailed Breakdown of High-Value Installations and Costs
During his tour of the residence, the minister spotlighted numerous luxurious installations, including:
- A modular kitchen approximated at around Rs 1.5 crore.
- Chandeliers valued up to Rs 88 lakh.
- Curtains costing nearly Rs 95 lakh.
- Television units priced up to Rs 28 lakh.
The bungalow also incorporates a jacuzzi, a sauna room, imported marble, designer fittings, and sophisticated automation systems.
He further asserted that approximately 50 air-conditioners were installed throughout the property, with an estimated monthly electricity expense of Rs 5 lakh. "Nearly 50 AC units in a single bungalow, all sustained by public money. The people of Delhi are entitled to understand how their diligently earned funds are being utilized," he remarked.
Timing and Governance Concerns Raised Amid Pandemic
Verma also interrogated the timing of the project, insinuating that crucial approvals and construction activities occurred during the Covid-19 pandemic. "When Delhi was grappling with oxygen shortages and hospital bed crises, prioritizing such undertakings poses serious governance inquiries," he noted.
Addressing wider issues, the minister claimed that additional expansion proposals could have incurred nearly Rs 60 crore more, which, he indicated, has now been averted. He additionally juxtaposed this expenditure with civic deficiencies in localities such as Sangam Vihar, Nangloi, and Jahangirpuri.
Emphasis on Public Accountability and Transparency
Stressing accountability, Verma clarified that the matter transcends political dimensions and centers on public finances. "If this bungalow had been erected using personal wealth, it would constitute a private affair. However, when taxpayer money is implicated, every rupee must be accounted for," he articulated, adding that the video was released to present facts to the public.
The controversy underscores ongoing debates over governance, transparency, and the ethical use of public resources in Delhi's political landscape.
