Congress candidate for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, Alka Lamba, has taken a sharp dig at former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over allegations of misusing ₹33 crores of taxpayers’ money for the renovation of the Chief Minister’s official residence during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lamba, who is contesting from the Kalkaji constituency against current CM Atishi, criticized Kejriwal for indulging in extravagance while the city grappled with inflation and economic hardship. She pointed out that the funds were allegedly spent on luxury items, including carpets, curtains, high-end toilets, and even a swimming pool.
This controversy aligns with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) ongoing “Sheesh Mahal” narrative, targeting Kejriwal’s government for lavish spending. Lamba accused Kejriwal of betraying his earlier promises of living a simple life, claiming he would not use official perks such as bungalows, cars, or security.
“During the pandemic, when people were struggling with inflation and economic challenges, this shocking misuse of ₹33 crores is a grave question mark on Kejriwal’s accountability,” said Lamba. She further alleged that Kejriwal prioritized personal luxuries over welfare schemes that could have supported Delhi’s struggling population, particularly women.
Adding weight to her accusations, Lamba mentioned an audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), which reportedly scrutinized the expenditure and highlighted discrepancies.
The BJP has also criticized Kejriwal’s leadership, with spokespersons calling his actions hypocritical and demanding accountability. The allegations have fueled a heated political discourse ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, with opposition parties using the “Sheesh Mahal” narrative to attack Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
As the political storm intensifies, voters are left questioning the priorities of their leaders and the ethical use of public funds. The spotlight remains on Arvind Kejriwal to address these allegations and justify the expenditures in the face of mounting criticism.
