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The political landscape of Delhi has taken an unexpected turn with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's surprise announcement of his resignation, effective after two days. This decision comes amidst a whirlwind of controversy surrounding the renovation of his official residence, which has become a focal point of criticism from opposition parties. Sources close to the situation have revealed that Kejriwal will vacate his bungalow within the next 15 days, adding another layer of intrigue to this unfolding political drama.
The controversy surrounding the renovation of the Chief Minister's residence began last year, when allegations surfaced that Kejriwal had spent an exorbitant Rs 45 crore on the project. The Congress party, a vocal critic, raised the stakes by claiming that the actual expenditure was much higher, reaching Rs 171 crore. This discrepancy, according to the Congress, stemmed from the necessity of acquiring additional flats for officers whose homes were either demolished or vacated to accommodate the expansion of the CM's residential complex.
Congress spokesperson Ajay Maken amplified the criticism, accusing Kejriwal of hypocrisy, stating that his lavish spending on his residence contradicted his image as a leader committed to a simple lifestyle. Maken contrasted Kejriwal's expenditure with the frugality of his party leader and former Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, highlighting the stark difference in their approaches to public funds. Maken claimed that the entire cabinet of Sheila Dikshit had spent a significantly lower amount on their residences during their 15-year tenure compared to Kejriwal's renovation costs.
Kejriwal's announcement of his resignation, however, has been met with skepticism from the BJP, the ruling party at the national level. The BJP has accused Kejriwal of playing political games and using his resignation as a tactic to gain sympathy. BJP national spokesperson Shezad Poonwalla argued that Kejriwal's resignation was a calculated move, aimed at portraying himself as a victim of a political conspiracy. He alleged that the court's decision to grant Kejriwal bail in the excise policy scam case, instead of outright acquittal, had effectively stripped him of his power, leaving him a ceremonial figurehead.
Poonwalla further alleged that Kejriwal's resignation was part of a strategic plan to elevate his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, to the position of Chief Minister. According to Poonwalla, Kejriwal has a knack for turning adversity into an advantage, and this resignation is a prime example of that. He asserted that Kejriwal's decision to step down for two days is a deliberate ploy to pave the way for his wife's ascension to the highest office in the Delhi government.
Kejriwal's political strategy has been a subject of much discussion and debate. His call for early elections in Delhi, coinciding with the Maharashtra elections, has added another layer of complexity to the situation. Kejriwal's demand for a fresh mandate from the people highlights his belief that he can regain public support and return to the Chief Minister's office. However, the BJP's response has been swift and critical, accusing Kejriwal of using the elections as a tool to deflect from the corruption allegations he faces.
The coming days will be crucial in determining the next steps in this political drama. Kejriwal's resignation, the controversy surrounding his residence renovation, and the demand for early elections have created a volatile atmosphere in Delhi's political landscape. The response of the BJP, the reactions of the Delhi electorate, and the outcome of the court proceedings in the excise policy scam case will all play significant roles in shaping the future of Delhi's political scene.
Source: Arvind Kejriwal to vacate chief minister's house in next 15 days: Sources