Why Was Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's Bungalow Tender Cancelled?
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Synopsis
The cancellation of the controversial tender for the renovation of CM Rekha Gupta's bungalow has sparked political outrage. With accusations of luxury spending amidst pressing issues, this decision raises questions about the Delhi government's priorities. Will a revised plan emerge, or is this simply a fleeting episode in Delhi's political narrative?
Key Takeaways
- Controversial tender for CM's bungalow renovation cancelled.
- Political backlash from AAP and Congress over luxury spending.
- Questions arise about the priorities of the Delhi government.
- Rekha Gupta's leadership faces scrutiny just months into her term.
- Future plans for the bungalow renovation remain uncertain.
New Delhi, July 9 (NationPress) The Public Works Department (PWD) of the Delhi government has terminated the contentious Rs 59.40 lakh tender initiated for the renovation and electrical enhancements at the official residence of newly appointed Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
The tender, initially set to be opened on July 4, was suddenly annulled on July 7, attributed to administrative reasons, as per the PWD statement.
The proposed budget encompassed the installation of 14 air-conditioners, a Rs 9 lakh television, Rs 6 lakh for lighting, and various other premium electrical fittings for the Chief Minister's bungalow located in Delhi's Civil Lines.
This decision follows a series of intense political reactions, with both the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress condemning the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Delhi administration.
AAP, which had previously been criticized over an alleged Rs 45 crore renovation of former CM Arvind Kejriwal's residence, accused the BJP of hypocrisy and double standards.
AAP representatives questioned, “Wasn’t the BJP decrying Kejriwal’s house? Now observe the luxury they envisioned for their own CM.”
Congress also targeted the BJP-led Delhi government, with State Congress President Devender Yadav commenting earlier, “This reflects the BJP's true priorities -- not governance, but lavish bungalows. The people of Delhi are grappling with a water crisis and inflation while the government focuses on air conditioners and luxury televisions.”
Under increasing pressure, the PWD issued an internal note to cancel the tender, offering little explanation aside from “administrative grounds.”
However, it is widely believed that the cancellation was a direct result of media and opposition backlash regarding the expenditure, which surfaced just months after Rekha Gupta took office as Chief Minister.
Rekha Gupta, a prominent BJP leader and former Delhi University Student Union President, was sworn in as Chief Minister in February 2025 after the BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Delhi Assembly elections, ending a nearly three-decade-long wait.
With the tender now revoked, it remains uncertain whether a revised, scaled-down version will be proposed or if this 'bungalow episode' will be quietly forgotten.
Point of View
It is our duty to present an unbiased view of the recent cancellation of the tender for CM Rekha Gupta's bungalow. This situation showcases the ongoing political strife in Delhi, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in government spending. The public deserves clarity on their leaders' priorities, especially when pressing issues like inflation and water crises persist.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for cancelling the tender?
The tender was cancelled citing 'administrative reasons' amid political backlash regarding its proposed expenditure.
Who is Rekha Gupta?
Rekha Gupta is the newly appointed Chief Minister of Delhi, taking office in February 2025.
What was included in the tender?
The tender included the installation of 14 air-conditioners, a Rs 9 lakh television, Rs 6 lakh worth of lighting, and other premium electrical fittings.
How did the opposition react to the tender?
Both AAP and Congress criticized the BJP for proposing luxury renovations while citizens face pressing issues like inflation and water shortages.
Will there be a revised tender issued?
It is currently unclear whether a revised, scaled-down version of the tender will be proposed.
