Thu Nov 21 08:04:29 UTC 2024: ## BJP Protest Leads to Detainees Outside Kejriwal’s Home
**New Delhi, November 21, 2024** – Hundreds of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters, including Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, were detained by police today following a protest outside the former residence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The demonstration, months ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, centered on allegations that Kejriwal spent ₹45 crore on renovating his official bungalow, dubbed the “Sheesh Mahal” (Palace of Mirrors) by the BJP.
The protest, marked by anti-AAP slogans, saw BJP members crammed into the streets near the bungalow in Delhi’s Civil Lines area. Videos showed protesters atop police barricades. Police sources confirmed that no one was permitted to breach law and order.
Adding fuel to the fire was the recent defection of former AAP leader Kailash Gahlot, who joined the BJP on Sunday, citing the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy as a key reason for his departure. Gahlot, a former senior minister in the Kejriwal government, stated at the protest that the lavish renovations compromised the AAP’s image as a party representing the “common man.” He expressed confidence in a BJP victory in the upcoming elections, citing dissatisfaction among Delhi residents over issues like overflowing sewers and damaged roads.
Sachdeva echoed these sentiments, demanding that Kejriwal disclose the source of funds for the alleged extravagant furnishings, including a reportedly ₹27 lakh television set and gold-plated fixtures. He cited the Public Works Department’s surprise at the extravagance upon Kejriwal’s departure.
The AAP, however, maintains that the renovations were necessary due to the building’s age (1942) and were recommended by the PWD.
Gahlot’s move to the BJP is considered a significant boost for the party before the elections. He denied that his switch was due to pressure from central investigative agencies, a common accusation leveled against the BJP.
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