AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj clashes with police over access to 'Sheesh Mahal' | VIDEO

New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders clashed with police outside the Chief Minister's residence in Delhi, igniting tensions amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the 'Sheesh Mahal'. Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj and AAP MP Sanjay Singh staged a protest, or 'dharna', after being denied entry to the CM's residence by law enforcement officials. The confrontation escalated when AAP members attempted to breach police barricades to access the residence.

The 'Sheesh Mahal' Controversy

The AAP has been vocal about its intention to open the so-called 'Sheesh Mahal' for public inspection, raising questions about whether the Prime Minister's residence would also be made accessible. This dispute over transparency comes in the wake of allegations regarding the renovation of the CM's official residence at 6 Flagstaff Road, which has been criticized for purported financial irregularities.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj and AAP MP Sanjay Singh enter into a heated exchange with Police personnel deployed outside the CM's residence where a Police barricading has been put up and heavy security has been deployed. pic.twitter.com/IfmRDm9e05

— ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2025

Bharadwaj highlighted that police and Public Works Department (PWD) officials claimed they were acting on orders from higher authorities to restrict access, implying political interference."The police and PWD officials are saying that there is order from the top to not allow anyone inside the CM residence. I told them that I am the minister... this means that there is an order from the LG," Bharadwaj stated, emphasizing his position and authority.

Political Context Ahead of Elections

This incident occurs just a day after the Election Commission of India announced assembly election dates for Delhi, setting February 5 as the voting day and February 8 for results. The timing of these events suggests a politically charged atmosphere as AAP prepares for a competitive electoral battle.Bharadwaj and Singh have promised to bring reporters to inspect not only their own official residence but also what they refer to as "Raj Mahal," the Prime Minister's abode, which they allege was constructed at an extravagant cost of ₹2,700 crore. Bharadwaj remarked that both residences were built during the COVID-19 pandemic and called for accountability regarding public funds.

"If there are allegations of misappropriation of funds, both should be investigated," he asserted. He further challenged claims made by opposition leaders about luxurious amenities within the CM’s residence, stating, "As promised, we will visit the chief minister's official residence at 6 Flagstaff Road, at 11 am and try to find the golden commode, swimming pool, and mini bar that the BJP claims are present there.

"The unfolding drama highlights not only internal party dynamics but also broader issues of governance and accountability in public office.