Thu Nov 20 18:35:16 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Assembly Committee to Decide Next Steps After Kejriwal, AAP Leaders Fail to Appear in “Fake Phansi-Ghar” Probe

New Delhi – November 21, 2025: Arvind Kejriwal, national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and three other prominent AAP leaders once again failed to appear before the Delhi Assembly’s Committee of Privileges on Thursday. The committee is investigating allegations surrounding a “fake phansi-ghar” (execution chamber) purportedly constructed on the assembly premises during the AAP’s previous term in power.

The investigation stems from allegations made by Speaker Vijender Gupta, who claimed significant funds were spent on the construction and advertisement of the alleged sham. Gupta referred the matter to the Committee of Privileges, which subsequently summoned Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, former Speaker Ram Niwas Goel, and former Deputy Speaker Rakhi Birla.

“Arvind Kejriwal…did not appear before the Committee of Privileges despite being given two opportunities,” stated Pradyumn Singh Rajput, chairperson of the committee. “Noting their continued non-appearance…the committee has now decided to determine the further course of action in the matter under consideration.”

The AAP has dismissed the summons as “legally untenable,” arguing that the committee lacks jurisdiction over matters from the previous Assembly term, citing a Supreme Court decision. In a statement, the party accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of engaging in “theatrics” while Delhi faces critical issues like pollution, failing public services, and security concerns.

In a letter to the Delhi Assembly Secretariat, Kejriwal asserted that the authenticity of the “phansi-ghar” could be verified through existing assembly records and files. He described it as an “administrative and internal matter of the then House” and characterized his presence at its inauguration as merely that of a “guest.”

Kejriwal has requested the committee withdraw the summons and drop the proceedings. The Committee of Privileges is now deliberating on its next steps in light of the continued non-compliance of Kejriwal and the other AAP leaders.

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