BJP says it'll take reporters on 'tour' inside 'Sheeshmahal'
What's the story
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a "guided tour" for journalists inside the controversial 'Sheeshmahal.' This is the Delhi bungalow where Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal lived during his term as chief minister. The Flagstaff Road bungalow in Civil Lines had become a bone of contention over its expensive renovations.
Tour details
Verma to lead tour showcasing alleged misuse of funds
Parvesh Verma, who recently defeated Kejriwal in the elections, said the party will take journalists on a tour of the bungalow. The tour is intended to showcase how the previous AAP government allegedly misused taxpayers' money for lavish renovations. The BJP had earlier slammed Kejriwal for his 'aam aadmi' or common man' claim while living in such opulence.
Twitter Post
'We will show you'
#WATCH | Delhi Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh says, "We are heading to the 'Sheesh Mahal' now, we will show you..." pic.twitter.com/7ai8bfJRrm
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2025
Renovation costs
'Sheeshmahal' renovations under scrutiny
The term 'Sheeshmahal,' representing a lavish house, was coined by the BJP to accuse Kejriwal of corruption. The bungalow's renovation reportedly cost ₹33 crore, with the BJP alleging it had extravagant features like a jacuzzi. The party also shared images purportedly showing these renovations. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva alleged that four government properties were merged to form a luxurious complex spread over 50,000 square meters. He has written to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena seeking cancellation of this merger.
Bungalow's future
Future use of 'Sheeshmahal' remains undecided
Speaking to NDTV, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta earlier vowed to turn the former CM residence into a museum. "We will make Sheeshmahal a museum...We will also fulfill all the promises PM Modi made. I thank him for choosing me for this position," she said. She had also opted not to stay here, leaving the decision about its future use undetermined.