The CBI has registered a preliminary enquiry (PE) into the alleged ‘irregularities' as ‘misconduct' by unidentified public servants of Delhi government towards the alleged corruption in the construction of a new residential building for chief minister Arvind Keriwal.
Ministers of Kejriwal cabinet Manish Sisodiya and Satyendra Jain are in jail over corruption charges.
The opposition BJP has accused the Kejriwal government of spending around Rs 45 crore on “beautification” of his official residence in Delhi's Civil Lines.
The CBI swung into action after a nod from the ministry of home affairs and is based on a five-page letter written by lieutenant governor V K Saxena. Saxena had written to the agency director in this regard in May. A special audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) was also ordered by the home ministry in this connection.
Saxena had directed the chief secretary to submit an inquiry report and to secure and take custody of all records and documents pertaining to the case.
The chief secretary's report had claimed that prima facie there were ir regularities in the renovation work. It had elaborated on the alleged violations on part of PWD.
Saxena subsequently wrote to the CBI director for a probe.
The CBI, sources said, will probe all aspects of the allegations that came to fore after an inquiry was conducted by the Delhi chief secretary.
The probe agency has asked PWD of the Delhi government to hand over all documents pertaining to the alleged irregularities by October 3. The documents sought by the CBI include tender details, note sheets, bidding documents, payment records, guidelines that were laid down and a “request from client” document, sources said.
It has been alleged that around Rs 11 crore was spent on interior decoration, Rs 6crore on stone and marble flooring, Rs 1 crore on interior consultancy, Rs 2.5 crore on electrical fittings and appliances, Rs 3 crore on a firefighting system, Rs 1.5 crore on wardrobe and accessories fittings and Rs 1 crore on kitchen appliances. Additionally, over Rs 8 crore was allegedly spent on the camp office of the CM.
The AAP alleged that the development was part of the BJP's efforts to stop the Arvind Kejriwal-led party from working for the people.
“Until now, more than 50 cases have been filed against Kejriwal and investigated. Nothing was found then and nothing will be found now. BJP may conduct as many investigations, Kejriwal will always fight for the betterment of the common person,” the party said.
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