BJP stages massive protest outside Kejriwal's residence, Kailash Gahlot joins
What's the story
The Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held a major protest outside former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence on Thursday. Led by Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva, the protest demanded answers over alleged extravagant spending on Kejriwal's former official bungalow, dubbed "Sheesh Mahal." The controversy has intensified after an inventory list exposed lavish furnishings at the residence, including gold-plated fixtures and high-end furniture.
Funding queries
BJP questions funding sources for lavish furnishings
Sachdeva alleged that the PWD documents did not include these expensive items. He asked if the funds came from the Punjab government or a liquor scam. "How did you get all these extravagant items in 'sheeshmahal?' Was it from the Punjab government, was it from the liquor scam or the Delhi Jal Board...," Sachdeva said at a press conference on Wednesday.
Investigation demand
Opposition leader demands investigation into 'luxurious items'
Delhi Assembly's Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta also demanded a high-level probe into these "luxurious items." Gupta also pointed out other items such as premium wash basins and reclining sofas which weren't supplied by the PWD. In a letter to the Lieutenant Governor, Gupta demanded an inquiry into the "luxurious items" installed in the bungalow.
Kailash Gahlot
BJP will form the government this time: Gahlot
Former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kailash Gahlot, who recently left the party and joined the BJP, was among the protesters. He said that he wrote a letter to Kejriwal over the controversy, stating that it compromises the core principles of the AAP. He further said, "I think this time BJP will form the Government in Delhi. People are troubled because work was not done in Delhi—sewers are overflowing, drinking water is not being supplied, roads are damaged."
Twitter Post
Protest outside Kejriwal's residence
#WATCH | Delhi BJP leaders and workers protest near the residence of AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, over 'Sheesh Mahal' controversy. pic.twitter.com/Iw5a54DLpY
— ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2024
Allegations dismissed
AAP dismisses allegations as politically motivated
The AAP has rubbished these allegations as politically motivated. The party accused the BJP of attempting to malign Kejriwal's reputation with false accusations. Defending Kejriwal, the party said he vacated his official residence following constitutional norms after resigning as chief minister. It also claimed that no wrongdoing has been found despite numerous investigations against their leaders.