New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) - Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma launched a scathing attack on former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the previous AAP government, accusing them of significant irregularities related to the lavish construction of a mansion known as ‘Sheesh Mahal’. He highlighted the detrimental impact on the environment due to the removal of green spaces for this project.

Verma pointed to extravagant purchases made for the mansion, alleging gross misconduct in the procurement of contracts and luxury items for the residence of the former CM. In a striking presentation, he revealed a detailed list of opulent items acquired for ‘Sheesh Mahal’, including high-priced furniture, sofas, tables, and recliners.

He also exhibited images of the construction site, which was once a flourishing green area, now transformed into the vast estate for the ex-CM. “All those trees were felled to make way for Sheesh Mahal,” Verma stated, showcasing before and after photos of the location.

During his address in the Delhi Assembly, the PWD Minister asserted that numerous trees were cut down to build the palatial residence for the AAP leader, who labeled himself as “aam aadmi” yet opted for a luxurious lifestyle.

Verma criticized the previous AAP administration for multiple violations in the construction process, from the tendering phase to the acquisition of lavish furnishings. “All required approvals—including price estimates and necessary engineer signatures—were completed in just one day. It’s shocking that while the COVID pandemic disrupted administrative tasks, all endorsements for this project were expedited,” he remarked.

He pointed out that orders to commence the construction of ‘Sheesh Mahal’ were issued at the height of the COVID-19 crisis, marked as exceptionally urgent, questioning why the AAP government never prioritized public welfare projects like sewer cleaning with the same urgency.

“Delhi has faced two calamities: the first was COVID-19, and the second is the Aam Aadmi Party,” the BJP leader declared, delivering a pointed critique.

Verma further accused Kejriwal of hypocrisy for not adhering to his oath to refrain from using government vehicles or accommodations. He noted that within 20 days of taking office, Kejriwal moved into a bungalow on Flagstaff Road.

Additionally, he claimed that plans for a second mansion, ‘Sheesh Mahal 2’, on an adjacent plot of 4,000 square yards had been initiated but halted when the AAP was ousted in the subsequent elections, implying that another ₹60 crore would have been spent had they remained in power.