Atishi allotted new residence in Daryaganj by PWD, AAP slams ‘delay’

NEW DELHI: Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Atishi has been allotted a new residence at 115, Ansari Road, Daryaganj by Public Works Department (PWD), according to sources.
The former chief minister wrote to PWD in March requesting her to allow her to retain the AB-17, Mathura Road bungalow, said a source. However, the department informed her that the bungalow belonged to Centre's pool, and therefore, could not be given to her, the source added.

"Her request was refused, after which she wrote to PWD to allot the Ansari Road bungalow that was earlier occupied by an AAP functionary as vice-chairperson of a commission," he said.
Confirming the development, sources in AAP said it was "unfortunate" Atishi was made to wait so long as she became Leader of Opposition on Feb 28.
Hitting back, a BJP functionary said, "Govt processes take time, especially when you are particular in your preference. Many of our ministers have not shifted. But AAP is a party of VIPs, so they are disappointed."
The AB-17, Mathura Road bungalow, located opposite Bharat Mandapam, was earlier occupied by former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia for years. When he went to jail in connection with the excise policy case, the bungalow was allotted to Atishi. The bungalow was also occupied by former chief minister Sheila Dikshit in the past.
According to PWD officials, an official residence is yet to be allotted to chief minister Rekha Gupta, although more than a month has passed since the BJP govt was sworn in. Sources said a suitable bungalow for CM is being searched in Lutyens' Delhi, keeping in view its proximity to the Secretariat, near ITO and central govt offices.
Earlier, social welfare minister Ravi Indraj Singh was allotted bungalow number 3/8 on Shamnath Marg while Mohan Singh Bisht, the deputy speaker in the assembly, was given bungalow 4/8 on the same road. Education minister Ashish Sood was assigned a house at 2, Limaye Marg in Chanakyapuri while law minister Kapil Mishra was allotted 2, Shamnath Marg.
Delhi govt has a few bungalows on Shamnath Marg, which are generally allotted to ministers. They are four-bedroom houses with a spacious front lawn, large living and drawing area, outhouse, and staff quarters.