The Delhi Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has issued summons to former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in a corruption case related to the construction of classrooms in government schools. The investigation into the allegations is ongoing.
Delhi News: Former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi and senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Manish Sisodia, and Satyendar Jain, are facing fresh trouble. The Delhi ACB has issued summons to both leaders in connection with alleged corruption in the construction of classrooms in government schools. The investigation is underway, and both leaders are expected to appear before the ACB shortly. Let's understand the details of this case.
Corruption Case in Government School Classroom Construction
The Anti-Corruption Bureau alleges significant corruption in the construction of approximately 12,748 classrooms and school buildings for government schools in Delhi. The total project cost is estimated to be around ₹2,000 crore. The investigation revealed that the prices quoted for the construction of these classrooms were abnormally high.
Inflated Costs and Contract Irregularities
The investigation found that the construction cost of a single classroom was approximately ₹24.86 lakh, about five times the normal cost. It is also alleged that the project contracts were awarded to 34 different contractors, most of whom are reportedly associated with the Aam Aadmi Party. The ACB also alleges that semi-permanent structures (SPS) with a lifespan of approximately 30 years were constructed, while their cost was equivalent to that of robust RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) structures with a lifespan of up to 75 years.
Furthermore, the project cost was increased by ₹326 crore without a new tender process. This allegation points to major irregularities in the project.
ACB Action and Summons Issued
On April 30, 2024, the Delhi ACB registered an FIR against Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in this case. The ACB has now summoned Satyendar Jain for questioning on June 6 and Manish Sisodia on June 9. Both leaders must appear before the ACB office.
Departments and Political Responsibilities of the Two Leaders
Manish Sisodia held the Finance and Education portfolios in the Delhi government, while Satyendar Jain was in charge of crucial departments like Health, Industries, Power, Home, Urban Development, and PWD. These corruption allegations have raised serious questions about the image of the Delhi government and the Aam Aadmi Party.
Previous Legal Troubles
This is not the first time Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain have faced legal difficulties. Manish Sisodia was previously arrested in the liquor scam case, while Satyendar Jain was imprisoned in a money laundering case. Although both are currently out on bail, the new summons and investigation appear to be increasing their political and legal woes.
