Did ACB Summon Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain Over Classroom Construction Scam?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the Anti-Corruption Branch of Delhi has summoned former AAP ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain over allegations of corruption in classroom constructions. With the sum involved reaching Rs 2,000 crores, this case has escalated tensions within the political landscape of Delhi. What implications might this have for the AAP party?
Key Takeaways
- ACB summons issued to Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain.
- Allegations involve Rs 2,000 crore corruption.
- Classroom construction costs were inflated.
- Investigations are ongoing, with an FIR already filed.
- The political implications for the AAP could be significant.
New Delhi, June 4 (NationPress) The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the Delhi government has summoned former AAP ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in connection with alleged corruption regarding the construction of classrooms in government schools.
Satyendar Jain is scheduled to appear at the ACB office on June 6, while Manish Sisodia has been asked to report on June 9.
The summonses were issued on Tuesday, concerning an alleged corruption case involving Rs 2,000 crore linked to the construction of 12,748 classrooms or semi-permanent structures during the previous AAP government.
On April 30, the ACB initiated an FIR against both leaders.
Satyendar Jain, who served as the minister of the Public Works Department (PWD) responsible for these constructions during the Arvind Kejriwal administration, and Manish Sisodia, the Education Minister, are at the center of this investigation.
The ACB claims that the alleged scam included awarding contracts at significantly inflated prices, with classrooms in state-run schools reportedly built at Rs 24.86 lakh each, nearly five times the standard cost.
It has also been alleged that the project was assigned to 34 contractors, many of whom had ties to the AAP.
The ACB has noted that the construction involved Semi-Permanent Structures (SPS) expected to last 30 years, yet the costs were comparable to Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) structures, which typically have a 75-year lifespan.
Additionally, the project's budget was increased by Rs 326 crore without new tenders, according to the ACB's findings.
The anti-corruption agency pointed out that there were significant deviations and cost overruns, yet not a single project was completed on time.
The vigilance directorate of the Delhi government recommended an investigation into the alleged scam in 2022 and forwarded a report to the chief secretary. In March, President Droupadi Murmu approved the filing of an FIR against Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain.
The AAP has condemned these actions, asserting that the case against its leaders is intended to intimidate and pressure them.
Point of View
The summons issued by the ACB against former AAP ministers raises serious questions regarding accountability in government spending. The alleged corruption case not only affects the reputations of those involved but also highlights the need for transparency in public projects. Ensuring that such inquiries are conducted without bias is essential for maintaining public trust.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the classroom construction scam about?
The classroom construction scam involves allegations of corruption in the construction of 12,748 classrooms, with claims of inflated costs totaling Rs 2,000 crores.
Who are the key figures in the scam?
The key figures in the scam are former AAP ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain.
What was the cost disparity highlighted by the ACB?
The ACB highlighted that classrooms were constructed at Rs 24.86 lakh each, which is nearly five times the usual cost.
What actions have been taken by the ACB?
The ACB has issued summonses to the involved ministers and filed an FIR against them regarding the alleged corruption.
How has the AAP responded to these allegations?
The AAP has criticized the summons, claiming that it is an attempt to intimidate their leaders.
