The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of Delhi Police has registered a case against senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders and former ministers, Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, in connection with an alleged ₹2000 crore scam related to the construction of classrooms in Delhi government schools. This development is significant for aspirants preparing for competitive exams, as it highlights issues of governance, corruption, and public expenditure, which are often tested in General Knowledge and Current Affairs sections.
Key Details of the Case
- Alleged Scam Amount: ₹2000 crore, involving the construction of 12,748 classrooms and school buildings during the AAP government's tenure.
- Accused: Manish Sisodia (former Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister) and Satyendar Jain (former Public Works Department Minister).
- Complaints: Filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Harish Khurana, Kapil Mishra, and Neelkanth Bakshi, alleging financial irregularities.
- Cost Escalation: Each classroom was constructed at an average cost of ₹24.86 lakh, nearly five times the standard cost of ₹5 lakh in Delhi.
- Irregularities: Contracts were awarded to 34 firms, many allegedly linked to AAP. Projects were not completed within the stipulated timeframe, leading to significant cost overruns.
- Legal Basis: The case was registered under Section 17-A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, following approval from the competent authority.
Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Report: A 2020 CVC report flagged major procedural violations, including breaches of the CPWD Works Manual 2014 and General Financial Rules 2017. It noted that semi-permanent structures (SPS) with a 30-year lifespan were built at costs equivalent to reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structures, which last 75 years, offering no financial benefit.
Background and Investigation
The investigation was initiated following complaints lodged by BJP leaders, who alleged that the AAP government inflated costs and awarded contracts to favored firms. The ACB’s probe revealed that the projects, initially sanctioned with a condition to be completed by June 2016 without cost escalation, saw significant delays and deviations. The total expenditure reached ₹2,892 crore, pushing the per-classroom cost to exorbitant levels.
The ACB also found that consultants and architects were appointed without following due procedures, and cost escalations were carried out without issuing fresh tenders, violating Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines. The case gained momentum after President Draupadi Murmu approved the registration of an FIR in March 2025, under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Significance for Competitive Exams
This case is a crucial topic for exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and State PSC, as it touches upon:
- Governance and Accountability: Issues of transparency in public projects.
- Anti-Corruption Mechanisms: Role of agencies like the ACB and CVC in tackling corruption.
- Political Developments: Impact on AAP’s image and Delhi’s political landscape.
Exam Tip: For MCQs, focus on key figures (₹2000 crore, 12,748 classrooms, ₹24.86 lakh vs. ₹5 lakh), names (Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain, Madhur Verma), and legal provisions (Section 17-A, Prevention of Corruption Act). Also, note the role of the CVC and the political context for essay-type questions.
Conclusion
The ₹2000 crore classroom construction scam case underscores the importance of vigilance in public expenditure and governance. As the ACB continues its investigation, this issue is likely to remain in the spotlight, making it a must-know topic for competitive exam aspirants. Stay updated with GKboard.in for more current affairs insights tailored for your exam preparation.