NEW DELHI — Just 24 hours after Arvind Kejriwal moved into his new government-allotted residence at 95, Lodhi Estate, a fresh political firestorm has erupted. The BJP has dubbed the new accommodation “Sheesh Mahal 2,” alleging that the AAP chief has once again used “private money” to furnish a lavish lifestyle.
The row escalated Saturday when Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Parvesh Verma released images and layouts of the bungalow, claiming they showcased superior quality amenities that exceed standard government spending.
The “Pinterest” Rebuttal
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) immediately dismissed the allegations, accusing the BJP of a clumsy attempt at character assassination.
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Fake Images: Senior AAP leader Atishi took to social media to claim the photos displayed by Verma were not of the bungalow but were actually downloaded from the image-sharing site Pinterest.
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The AI Jibe: “You could’ve used AI for this instead; theft doesn’t get caught that quickly,” Atishi remarked, mocking the BJP’s evidence as internet fabrications.
Raghav Chadha Weighs In
Adding a sharp sting to the controversy, Raghav Chadha, who defected from AAP to the BJP just yesterday, used the opportunity to taunt his former mentor.
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Electoral Fallout: Chadha claimed the original “Sheesh Mahal” controversy was a primary reason for AAP’s recent electoral losses in Delhi.
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Introspection: “I wonder how the few remaining good workers of AAP will answer people in the streets about ‘Sheesh Mahal Part 2’,” Chadha told reporters, urging his former party to introspect.
Allegations vs. Official Allotment
Background of the Bungalow
The Type-VII bungalow in Lodhi Estate was allotted to Kejriwal by the Central Government following his status as the head of a national party. This move followed his departure from the Ferozeshah Road residence of Ashok Mittal, another MP who recently joined the BJP exodus.
As the war of words intensifies, the BJP has challenged Kejriwal to disclose the total investment made in the new residence, while AAP maintains that the entire episode is a “desperate distraction” from the BJP’s recent political maneuvering.
