Hardeep Puri Seeks Clarification from Kejriwal on 'Sheesh Mahal' Financing
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Synopsis
As the Assembly elections loom, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri criticizes Arvind Kejriwal for alleged financial mismanagement of the Sheesh Mahal project, claiming a loss of Rs 2,000 crore. He demands accountability from the former Delhi Chief Minister regarding project approvals and failures in delivering basic amenities.
Key Takeaways
- Hardeep Singh Puri accuses Kejriwal of causing Rs 2,000 crore loss.
- Demands clarification on Sheesh Mahal project funding.
- Questions project approval during the pandemic.
- Puri highlights Central government's achievements in housing.
- Criticism of Kejriwal's unfulfilled electoral promises.
New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) The political climate in Delhi is heating up as the Assembly elections approach, scheduled for February 5. On Monday, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri accused Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of incurring a loss of Rs 2,000 crore related to the 'Sheesh Mahal' initiative.
Puri insisted that Kejriwal owes an explanation regarding the budget and endorsement of this project, asserting that the AAP leader will need to respond to these inquiries soon.
In an interview with IANS, Hardeep Puri raised concerns about why this project proceeded during the pandemic when construction was largely halted. He indicated that the Kejriwal administration sanctioned this initiative.
The Union Minister stated that the exchequer suffered a loss exceeding Rs 2,000 crore due to the liquor scam.
Puri reiterated that Kejriwal needs to clarify the budget and authorization of the Sheesh Mahal project, emphasizing that the former Delhi CM will be held responsible for these issues moving forward.
On the topic of the Prime Minister’s residence, Puri clarified that the PM’s house is not yet completed.
He noted that within the Central Vista project, only Kartavya Path has been finalized, while the PM’s residence remains under construction.
Puri highlighted that while Kejriwal questions the PM’s bungalow, he should first address the situation regarding his own Sheesh Mahal. He also suggested that Kejriwal should seek medical attention, as the approval for the Prime Minister’s residence project was given earlier and construction is still ongoing.
The Union Minister further pointed out that the Central government initiated the Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme in 2015, which has helped provide permanent housing to 4 crore individuals. He mentioned that 3,000 flats have been constructed in the Kalkaji region of Delhi.
Puri accused Kejriwal of failing to deliver on electoral promises. He claimed that the Delhi government has not ensured basic amenities like clean water and toilets in the past five years, while the Central government has constructed over 11 crore toilets.
The Union Minister added that Kejriwal has also not enacted the Ayushman Bharat scheme or the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme in Delhi.
