The reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) on the time of the previous AAP government will be presented today in the Delhi Assembly by the new government led by CM Rekha Gupta. This document will give you information about how the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, which is led by Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi, handles money and running the government.
In the past, the BJP said that the AAP was purposely delaying the release of CAG reports, which raised concerns about the authority and openness of government while it was in power.
Pending Reports and Allegations
Last Thursday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that these reports would be disclosed in the first session under the new administration. The pending audits cover various areas, including state finances, public health infrastructure, vehicular air pollution, liquor regulation, and the functioning of the Delhi Transport Corporation. The BJP had persistently demanded these reports’ release during AAP’s tenure, even seeking court intervention to compel their tabling.
The BJP accused the AAP government of stalling audits to conceal alleged corruption. This issue became a significant point of contention during Assembly elections, with BJP highlighting delays as attempts to suppress findings of financial mismanagement. One report under scrutiny involves renovating the chief minister’s official residence at 6, Flag Staff Road, dubbed ‘Sheesh Mahal’ by BJP.
Cost Escalation and Political Reactions
The audit reportedly revealed substantial irregularities in planning, tendering, and executing this project. Initially sanctioned at Rs 7.61 crore in 2020, costs escalated to Rs 33.66 crore by April 2022-a 342% increase. Both BJP and Congress have used these findings to target former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, alleging misuse of public funds.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena previously expressed concerns over non-disclosure of these reports and urged for a special legislative assembly session last December. However, they were not presented during AAP’s tenure, leading to growing demands for their release.
Leadership Changes and Expectations
BJP leader Vijender Gupta was a vocal critic of AAP’s handling of CAG reports as Leader of Opposition in the last assembly. He was previously marshalled out for demanding their tabling but now presides as Speaker. With Gupta in charge, it is expected that these reports will be placed before the House without further delay.
