Tensions escalate as AAP leaders clash with police outside Delhi CM's residence over controversial 'Sheesh Mahal' access | VIDEO

New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders and police clashed outside the Chief Minister's residence in Delhi amidst a heated dispute over the controversial 'Sheesh Mahal'. Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj and AAP MP Sanjay Singh initiated a sit-in protest, or 'dharna', after being barred from entering the premises by law enforcement. This confrontation escalated when AAP leaders attempted to breach the police barricades set up around the Chief Minister's residence.

Controversy Surrounding 'Sheesh Mahal'

The AAP has previously announced plans to open the so-called 'Sheesh Mahal' to the public, questioning whether the Prime Minister's residence would also be accessible for public viewing. Tensions rose as Bharadwaj engaged in a heated exchange with police officers stationed outside, asserting his authority as a minister.

#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

"The police and PWD officials are saying that there is an 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.This incident follows the Election Commission of India’s announcement of assembly election dates in Delhi, setting a competitive political atmosphere. Voting is scheduled for February 5, with results expected on February 8.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj and AAP MP Sanjay Singh sit on a 'dharna' outside the CM's residence after being denied entry by the Police.

Yesterday, Sanjay Singh challenged BJP to visit the CM's residence along with media personnel, amid the BJP's 'sheesh mahal'… https://t.co/zZdITLY7eC pic.twitter.com/OV9MbsaIz6

— ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2025

Allegations of Misuse of Funds

The bungalow at 6 Flagstaff Road has been at the center of controversy due to allegations of financial irregularities during its renovation. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claims that former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal misappropriated significant funds for these renovations. At a press conference, AAP leaders expressed their intent to take journalists to visit what they have labeled "Raj Mahal," alleging it was constructed at a staggering cost of ₹2,700 crore.

Bhardwaj remarked, "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." He emphasized that both residences were built using taxpayer money during the COVID-19 pandemic and called for investigations into any alleged misuse of funds.

The ongoing conflict between AAP leaders and police highlights significant political tensions in Delhi as election season approaches. With accusations flying regarding financial misconduct and public access to government properties, this situation is likely to continue evolving in the lead-up to crucial elections.