PM Modi Inaugurates 1,675 Flats for Slum Dwellers, Criticizes Kejriwal’s ‘Sheeshmahal’ Spending
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 1,675 flats for residents of ‘Jhuggi-Jhopri’ (JJ) clusters and launched two major urban redevelopment projects in Delhi today. The event doubled as a platform for the Prime Minister to critique Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, particularly over allegations of exorbitant expenditures on the CM’s official residence.
Addressing the audience, PM Modi remarked, “The entire nation knows that Modi never built a house for himself but constructed over 4 crore houses for the poor. ‘Mai bhi koi Sheeshmahal bana sakta tha’ (even I could have built a Sheeshmahal).” His pointed comment referred to reports from October by the Public Works Department (PWD), which revealed the installation of high-end gadgets and luxury appliances at Kejriwal’s residence, reportedly costing crores.
The controversy surrounding the lavish renovations has become a hotbed of political conflict, with the BJP accusing the AAP government of extravagance at the expense of public funds.
In his speech, PM Modi further criticized the governance of the AAP-led Delhi government. “For the past 10 years, Delhi has been plagued by an ‘aapada’ (disaster). Using Anna Hazare as a front, a few ‘kattar beimaan’ (extremely dishonest) people have pushed the capital into crisis. ‘AAP aapada bankar Delhi par toot padi hai’ (AAP has descended upon Delhi as a calamity),” he said.
Highlighting India’s trajectory on the global stage, PM Modi added, “India is now a beacon of political and economic stability. By 2025, India’s influence will further solidify as we aim to become one of the largest manufacturing hubs in the world.”
Major Developments Inaugurated
The event marked the completion of the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) second In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project. Beneficiaries of the newly constructed EWS flats, located at Swabhiman Apartments in Ashok Vihar, were handed the keys to their homes by PM Modi himself.
The initiative has been praised for its affordability. For each flat, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 25 lakh by the central government, beneficiaries are required to pay less than 7 percent of the total cost. This includes a nominal contribution of Rs 1.42 lakh and an additional Rs 30,000 for five years of maintenance. This project is expected to significantly improve the living conditions of slum dwellers, providing them with clean, safe, and dignified housing.
In a strategic move ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, anticipated in February, this redevelopment effort underscores the BJP-led central government’s commitment to urban renewal and welfare for the underprivileged.
Redevelopment Projects to Transform Delhi
Alongside the flats, PM Modi inaugurated two key urban redevelopment projects: the World Trade Centre at Nauroji Nagar and the General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA) Type-II quarters at Sarojini Nagar.
The World Trade Centre project has revitalized Nauroji Nagar by replacing over 600 outdated residential units with modern commercial infrastructure. The newly built towers offer approximately 34 lakh square feet of premium commercial space, designed with state-of-the-art amenities. This redevelopment is expected to boost Delhi’s economy by attracting businesses and creating job opportunities.
The GPRA Type-II quarters in Sarojini Nagar provide improved residential facilities for government employees, combining modern architecture with a commitment to sustainable urban planning.
PM Modi’s Vision for Delhi’s Development
Before the event, PM Modi shared his enthusiasm on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Today is a significant day for Delhi’s development. At a programme in Ashok Vihar, I will be inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for a wide range of development works aimed at boosting the ‘Ease of Living’ for the people of Delhi.”
These initiatives represent a multifaceted approach to urban development, focusing on housing, infrastructure, and economic growth. By prioritizing affordable housing for the urban poor and modernizing commercial spaces, the government aims to elevate Delhi’s status as a global city.
Political Undertones and Beneficiary Voices
The inauguration comes at a politically charged time, with assembly elections around the corner. The BJP’s emphasis on infrastructure and slum rehabilitation aligns with its strategy to connect with economically weaker sections of society. Meanwhile, the AAP government, embroiled in allegations of financial impropriety, faces mounting criticism from opposition parties.
Residents who received the new flats expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Kavita Sharma, a beneficiary, said, “We lived in unsafe conditions for years, but this flat has given us hope for a better life.” Another resident, Ramesh Gupta, stated, “This project is a lifeline for people like us who never thought we could afford a proper home.”
As Delhi undergoes this transformation, the competing narratives of development versus governance will play a crucial role in shaping voter sentiment. PM Modi’s initiatives and sharp political messaging underscore his government’s commitment to inclusivity and progress, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral battle.
