New Delhi: In a searing attack on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the AAP government’s blatant disregard for the public while splurging money on opulence during the COVID-19 crisis.
The Prime Minister’s most stinging criticism focused on Kejriwal’s construction of an extravagant residence, the “Sheesh Mahal,” which cost the public a staggering Rs 33 crore—far exceeding the initial budget of Rs 8.6 crore. Modi’s comments highlight the hypocrisy at the heart of Kejriwal’s governance, especially when his government should have been focused on alleviating the suffering of Delhiites during the pandemic.
Accusation Made By PM Modi Against Arvind Kejriwal
Modi, speaking at a rally, accused the Delhi Chief Minister of using public funds for his personal gain during one of the most devastating health crises in modern history.
“When the people of Delhi were grappling with COVID19, struggling to find medical oxygen and medicines, the entire focus of the ‘AAPda people’ (AAP) was on building their own ‘Sheesh Mahal (palaces),’” Modi remarked.
The CAG report, which the Prime Minister cited, has revealed the enormous cost overruns of the Sheesh Mahal renovation and highlighted a shocking three-fold increase in the projected costs. Originally pegged at Rs 8.6 crore in 2020, the Public Works Department eventually spent Rs 33 crore by 2022. These figures alone are enough to raise serious questions about financial mismanagement. The excessive expenditure covered a variety of extravagant items, from Rs 66 lakh for wall marble to Rs 39 lakh spent on kitchen equipment. Perhaps most egregiously, Rs 18 lakh was allocated for a treadmill and gym equipment, all during a time when families across Delhi were struggling with the devastating health effects of COVID-19 and trying to access basic medical supplies.
Modi’s sharp words, however, aren’t just about the financial aspects. He used the Sheesh Mahal as a symbol of Kejriwal’s failure to connect with the people of Delhi. “They made a huge budget for the ‘Sheesh Mahal.’ This is their truth… They do not care about the people of Delhi. That is why every Delhiite today is saying… We will not tolerate AAPda, we will bring change,’” Modi declared, underscoring the growing frustration among Delhi’s citizens.
Even more damning, the CAG report uncovered that the renovation increased the built-up area of the residence by almost 36 percent, expanding it to a sprawling 1,905 square meters. This was not a simple renovation but a major reconstruction aimed at creating a luxurious home. Modi has seized upon this controversy as part of a broader narrative of what he deems “AAPda” (disaster) governance under the AAP.
PM Modi Criticises Arvind Kejriwal For Misusing Public Funds
He sharply criticized Kejriwal for misusing public funds while the people of Delhi struggled to find oxygen, medicines, and basic care during the pandemic. The Prime Minister has framed this as part of a larger problem with AAP leadership—prioritizing personal comfort over the well-being of the citizens.
“This is their truth… They do not care about the people of Delhi,” Modi asserted, framing the Sheesh Mahal scandal as a reflection of the AAP’s deeper failure.
Kejriwal’s administration, he argues, has failed to deliver on basic services such as drinking water, pollution control, and public infrastructure. Instead, it has been consumed by internal battles with the Centre, leaving Delhi in a perpetual state of emergency, with each season bringing its own set of urban challenges.
While Kejriwal and his supporters have dismissed the accusations as politically motivated, they are unable to shake off the broader criticism that has surrounded this controversy. The CAG report, combined with the timing of the renovation, paints a picture of a government out of touch with the suffering of its people.
