Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has stirred political waters by ordering a probe into alleged irregularities in the Barapula Elevated Road Phase-3 project. The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) will investigate a disputed payment of ₹175 crore made to a contractor during the tenure of former PWD Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi.
The controversy came to light during a recent meeting of the Delhi Government's Finance Expenditure Committee, which reviewed the progress of the Barapula Phase-3 project. Officials noted that the payment of ₹175 crore was made due to gross negligence by the previous government, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability.
During the review, questions were also raised about the role of the Public Works Department (PWD) under the AAP-led administration. Minister Pravesh Verma, who attended the meeting, echoed concerns over procedural lapses.
Speaking after the meeting, CM Rekha Gupta stated, “The incomplete construction of the Barapula Phase-3 project and the massive payment made despite it is a clear example of the mismanagement and corruption during the Aam Aadmi Party's rule.”
The announcement has sparked political tension in the capital, with opposition parties demanding further accountability. The ACB investigation is expected to intensify scrutiny on AAP and Atishi, who is already facing criticism on multiple fronts.
As the probe begins, the controversy could prove to be another major setback for AAP in Delhi politics.
