A dispute has arisen in Jharkhand concerning the proposed construction of the Chief Minister’s residence, with the BJP accusing the Hemant Soren-led government of building a lavish “Sheesh Mahal” worth Rs 100 crore. The BJP criticized the project, highlighting extravagant features like a Rs 2 crore fountain and a Rs 2.5 crore garden, alleging a focus on luxury over public welfare.
State BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Dev condemned the move, expressing concern that while citizens are facing hardships, the Chief Minister would reside in a luxurious glass palace valued at Rs 100 crore. He emphasized that amenities such as the expensive fountain and garden would only add to the opulence of the proposed residence.
During a press conference, Shah Dev pointed out the irony of a government claiming to advocate for the underprivileged, yet planning a lavish abode for the Chief Minister. He alleged that the project includes amenities like a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and deluxe rooms. Drawing parallels with Delhi, he accused Chief Minister Hemant Soren of emulating Arvind Kejriwal by constructing a similar “Sheesh Mahal” using public funds.
The BJP spokesperson further claimed that although the main building’s official cost is estimated at around Rs 47 crore, the total expenditure could escalate to nearly Rs 70 crore when factoring in other components. Alleging a potential final cost exceeding Rs 100 crore due to typical construction project cost escalations, he questioned the timing of the project. Shah Dev criticized the lack of transparency in disclosing the project’s approval during the previous cabinet briefing, as the government had already announced plans for a new Raj Bhavan and Chief Minister’s residence in a smart city zone.
Describing the situation as regrettable, Shah Dev emphasized the concerns raised by spending significant amounts on luxury while many tribal and indigenous families in the state struggle for basic necessities. He pledged that the BJP would engage the public on whether taxpayer funds should be allocated to “royal luxuries” or essential public welfare services.
In response, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) defended the project as a government-approved infrastructure initiative in a relatively young state. JMM spokesperson Manoj Pandey criticized the BJP for stirring unnecessary controversy over the Chief Minister’s residence, questioning the appropriateness of an elected leader residing in inadequate housing. Pandey justified the project and questioned why the Chief Minister should live in substandard accommodation.
Pandey also countered the BJP’s arguments by referencing projects undertaken by the central government and the BJP. He raised concerns about the initiation of the Rs 1200 crore Central Vista project during the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged the construction of a Rs 395 crore BJP office and party offices nationwide during the lockdown, questioning objections to a Chief Minister’s residence in a tribal state.