A day after seven AAP MPs defected to the BJP, the two parties traded sharp accusations over AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal’s new residence in Delhi, with the BJP dubbing it “Sheesh Mahal Part 2”—a reference to his official residence during his tenure as Chief Minister, which the party had earlier labelled similarly.
Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Parvesh Verma launched a personal attack, calling Kejriwal “Delhi ka Rahman Dakait,” drawing a comparison to a character portrayed by Akshaye Khanna in the film Dhurandhar. He alleged that, like a sequel, Kejriwal now has a second “Sheesh Mahal.”
Verma also presented what he claimed were layout plans and interior design documents of the bungalow at Lodhi Estate, where Kejriwal has recently shifted.
According to him, the documents describe a “contemporary transitional” design, including spaces such as a foyer, living room, bedrooms, lounge, and meeting room, along with customised furniture and décor.
In a significant political claim, Verma alleged that Bhagwant Mann is under pressure within the party and feeling “suffocated,” suggesting internal tensions in the AAP leadership. He further claimed that Mann was uncertain about his political future alongside Kejriwal.
Former Delhi minister Atishi Marlena dismissed the allegations, calling the images “fake” and not belonging to Kejriwal’s residence. She countered that if questions were being raised about luxury, BJP leaders and the Lieutenant Governor should also open their residences for public scrutiny. “Kejriwal ji will open his house as well, and the public will decide,” she said.
Verma also criticised Kejriwal’s lifestyle, alleging that a leader who once championed simplicity now lives lavishly. “The Aam Aadmi Party has become the ‘Alishaan Aadmi Party’,” he remarked, questioning the cost of the Lodhi Estate bungalow and the source of funds used for its interiors.
Kejriwal, meanwhile, confirmed on Friday that he had moved into a Type-VII government bungalow at 95 Lodhi Estate after it was allotted by the Centre following court directions.
In a post on X, he said the allotment took into account his role as AAP’s national convenor. “In the last few days, the Central government allotted me a house on the orders of the court. I have now shifted there with my family,” he said.