Did Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Criticize BJP Over ‘Sheesh Mahal’ Controversy?
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Synopsis
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has taken a strong stance against the BJP, challenging their claims of a government residence being a lavish 'Sheesh Mahal' for Arvind Kejriwal. With pointed questions and accusations of baseless allegations, Mann sheds light on the real issues facing Punjab amidst political tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Bhagwant Mann challenges BJP's claims on government residence.
- No extravagant renovations made to the residence.
- BJP's allegations seen as a distraction from their political agenda.
- Term “Sheesh Mahal” has historical political context.
- Political tensions escalate between AAP and BJP in Punjab.
Chandigarh, Nov 1 (NationPress) Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday criticized the BJP for referring to a government residence in Chandigarh as a “Sheesh Mahal” for AAP’s national convener Arvind Kejriwal. In a video address, the Chief Minister asserted that the house labeled a “Sheesh Mahal” by the BJP is actually the official accommodation for the Punjab CM’s guests. He questioned, “Isn’t it the same place where a Pakistani journalist, a friend of Capt Amarinder Singh, stayed during his tenure as Chief Minister, without any BJP objections?”
CM Mann emphasized that no extravagant renovations have been made to the residence; it remains comparable to other accommodations for ministers in Punjab and Haryana. He even offered to reveal the locations of genuine “Sheesh Mahals” owned by Capt Amarinder Singh, a BJP figure, and Sukhbir Badal, the President of the Shiromani Akali Dal.
He claimed that the BJP's accusations stem from their lack of a concrete agenda for Punjab, stating, “They are agitated by the overwhelming support AAP is receiving during political rallies across Punjab.”
The term “Sheesh Mahal” was initially coined by the BJP to describe Kejriwal's former Chief Ministerial residence at 6 Flag Staff Road in North Delhi, which they claimed resembled a palace.
This statement follows a demand from Ashwani Sharma, the Punjab BJP’s working President, for an explanation regarding reports of a government bungalow in Sector 2, Chandigarh, being renovated as a new “Sheesh Mahal” for Kejriwal.
In a tweet, Sharma asserted that the issue extends beyond Punjab, resonating in Delhi as well. After AAP’s Rajya Sabha member Swati Maliwal raised the matter, Sharma directly addressed Chief Minister Mann.
On social media platform X, Sharma questioned, “Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-ji, is it true that the Sector 2 bungalow allotted to you under your CM quota has been renovated as a new ‘Sheesh Mahal’ for Arvind Kejriwal? The people of Punjab deserve to know the truth about this.”
Sharma alleged that just as Kejriwal constructed his “Sheesh Mahal” in Delhi using public funds, a similar scenario appears to be unfolding in Punjab. He expressed, “This is an endeavor for personal luxury at the expense of taxpayers, and Bhagwant Mann needs to clarify this matter.”
Calling it Sheesh Mahal 2.0, Virendra Sachdeva, President of the Delhi BJP, also launched a fierce critique against Kejriwal regarding his supposed ownership of a “palatial” bungalow from the Punjab government. “You must provide answers, Arvind Kejriwal. What is this Sheesh Mahal 2.0? Are you planning to exploit Punjab as you did in Delhi?” Sachdeva questioned in a video message.
He demanded clarification on whether the Sheesh Mahal model has shifted its focus to Punjab, a state of national pride, for corruption and exploitation.
“I have learned that Kejriwal has taken control of a multi-crore bungalow in Punjab, which surpasses the cost of the one he constructed in Delhi,” the Delhi BJP Chief added.
Sachdeva also raised questions about the allocation under which the two-acre, seven-star bungalow in Chandigarh's Sector-2 was granted.
Point of View
It is essential to observe the ongoing tensions between AAP and BJP in Punjab. The accusations regarding the 'Sheesh Mahal' highlight the political maneuvering at play. As Punjab grapples with significant issues, political leaders must focus on substantive agendas rather than sensational claims to truly serve the interests of the people.
NationPress
24/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Sheesh Mahal' controversy about?
The controversy revolves around the BJP's claims that a government bungalow in Chandigarh has been renovated as a 'Sheesh Mahal' for AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, which Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann denies, stating it is an official residence.
Why did Bhagwant Mann criticize the BJP?
Mann criticized the BJP for making unfounded allegations and pointed out that the residence in question has historically served as official accommodation without prior complaints.
What did Ashwani Sharma say regarding the issue?
Ashwani Sharma, the Punjab BJP’s working President, demanded an explanation from Mann about the alleged renovations to the government bungalow, asserting that it raises questions beyond Punjab.
How is the term 'Sheesh Mahal' used politically?
The term 'Sheesh Mahal' was initially used by the BJP to describe Kejriwal's previous official residence in Delhi, suggesting it was excessively luxurious.
What are the implications of this controversy?
The controversy reflects the ongoing political rivalry between AAP and BJP in Punjab, highlighting the need for both parties to address real issues affecting the state.
