Former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia appeared before the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) in a classroom construction scam. Interrogation is underway regarding alleged irregularities amounting to ₹2000 crore. Sisodia maintains his innocence.
New Delhi: Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia appeared at the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) office today. He is accused of a roughly ₹2000 crore scam in the construction of classrooms in government schools during the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's tenure. The ACB has already filed an FIR and the investigation is ongoing.
Sisodia Appears Following Second ACB Summons
The ACB had summoned Manish Sisodia for questioning on June 9th, but he was unable to appear. A second summons was issued for June 20th, leading to his appearance today. According to ACB sources, the questioning focuses on the cost of classroom construction, the tendering process, and details of work awarded to contractors.
Origin of the Case
The case emerged from reports alleging that the cost of classroom construction in Delhi government schools significantly exceeded the allocated budget. Some schools had more classrooms built than needed, while construction remained incomplete in others. Based on these complaints, Delhi's Anti-Corruption Branch launched a preliminary investigation.
₹2000 Crore Scam Allegation
Manish Sisodia is accused of financial irregularities amounting to approximately ₹2000 crore. Allegations include bypassing regulations in classroom construction tenders and awarding contracts to contractors lacking transparency. The opposition continues to raise this issue, accusing the Aam Aadmi Party government of corruption.
Focus of the ACB Inquiry
ACB officials state that the inquiry aims to confirm potential irregularities and violations in classroom construction. Sisodia is also being questioned about the standards followed in tenders and the roles of officials involved in the process. The ACB has also sought several documents related to the planning, budget, approval, and execution of classroom construction.
Sisodia's Response
In a media interaction before the questioning, Manish Sisodia declared his innocence. He stated that he worked honestly to improve education in Delhi's government schools and would face any investigation. He claimed the action was politically motivated and that he was being falsely implicated.
It is noteworthy that Manish Sisodia is already in judicial custody in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam. The ongoing investigation into the classroom scam further intensifies legal challenges for him.
