The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated a preliminary enquiry (PE) into alleged irregularities and misconduct associated with the construction of a new official residence for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which holds power in Delhi, vehemently rejected the allegations, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was leveraging its authority to undermine their party’s activities.
The CBI’s preliminary enquiry is focused on unidentified public servants within the Delhi government, according to officials. This initial step is intended to determine whether the allegations possess sufficient prima facie evidence to proceed with a formal First Information Report (FIR).
The anti-corruption branch of the CBI has sought records from the Public Works Department (PWD) related to the approval and recommendations made by its officials concerning alterations, tender documents, contractor bids, building plan approvals, and client requests for premium specifications such as modular kitchens, marble flooring, and other ornamental work.
The AAP has countered these developments by suggesting that they are part of the BJP’s strategy to obstruct the Arvind Kejriwal-led party’s efforts to serve the people of Delhi.
In a statement, the AAP alleged, “This is the reason why the country’s best health and education ministers, Satyendar Jain and Manish Sisodia, were put behind bars.”
The party further claimed, “The BJP is using all its power to finish the AAP.” The AAP argued that they are the only party that seeks votes based on their commitment to providing excellent healthcare and education services. They insinuated that the BJP does not prioritize the welfare of disadvantaged citizens when it comes to education and healthcare facilities.
The investigation and the subsequent political responses underscore the ongoing tensions between the AAP and the BJP in the context of Delhi’s political landscape. These allegations and counter-allegations are likely to fuel further debates and discussions in the coming days as both parties continue to vie for influence and control in the capital city. It remains to be seen whether the CBI’s preliminary enquiry will lead to a full-fledged investigation or whether it will be concluded without further legal action based on the evidence gathered during this initial phase.