‘Sheesh Mahal’ Row in Jharkhand Over ₹67 Cr CM Bungalow
BJP targets Hemant Soren govt; JMM calls project administrative necessity
- Hemant Soren govt plans ₹67 crore CM residence
- BJP compares project to Delhi’s “Sheesh Mahal” controversy
- JMM defends move citing security and governance needs
- Tender process underway; bids open till April 29
GG News Bureau
Ranchi, 1st April: A fresh political storm has erupted in Jharkhand after the state government announced plans to construct a new Chief Minister’s residence at an estimated cost of ₹67 crore, triggering a “Sheesh Mahal” row similar to the one seen in Delhi.
The proposed bungalow, linked to Hemant Soren, has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, which alleged misuse of public funds and compared the project to the controversy surrounding Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence.
The state government, however, has defended the move, stating that the existing British-era residence had become dilapidated and unsuitable for modern administrative and security requirements.
According to officials, the new complex on Kanke Road in Ranchi will include advanced security systems, meeting spaces, and infrastructure necessary for governance. The government has clarified that the residence is not meant for a single individual but will serve future Chief Ministers as well.
The tender process for the project is set to begin on April 2, with a pre-bid meeting scheduled for April 8. The last date for submission of bids is April 29, and bids will be opened on April 30.
Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi criticised the project, alleging that the government is prioritising luxury over public welfare. He claimed that while funds are scarce for employment, education, and tribal development, crores are being spent on the Chief Minister’s residence.
Marandi also said the government has failed to deliver on its electoral promises and accused it of focusing on optics rather than governance.
Responding to the allegations, JMM General Secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya termed the criticism politically motivated, asserting that the project is essential for administrative functioning. He said the premises host official meetings, security operations, and government events, necessitating modern infrastructure.
Political observers note that the controversy reflects a broader battle of perception, with the opposition framing the project as wasteful expenditure while the government presents it as a development and governance requirement.
