BJP brass boycotts own event

Demanding the Delhi chief minister’s resignation over the CAG report on Commonwealth Games projects, BJP leaders boycotted the foundation stone laying of the much-awaited Chandni Chowk’s redevelopment plan on Thursday.

Demanding the Delhi chief minister’s resignation over the CAG report on Commonwealth Games projects, BJP leaders boycotted the foundation stone laying of the much-awaited Chandni Chowk’s redevelopment plan on Thursday.

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Amidst slogans, chaos and BJP workers protesting with black flags, union minister for human resources development, Kapil Sibal, laid the project’s foundation stone. He thanked the Delhi government for allocating R45 crore for the project.

Taking a dig at the BJP, Sibal said no party can shake Sheila Dikshit’s reputation as a leader. “No matter how many black flags are fluttered, white will remain white,” said Sibal.

Mayor Rajni Abbi, chairman of MCD’s Standing Committee Yogender Chandolia, and leader of the MCD House, Subhash Arya boycotted the event.

“This project will beautify the area and we are hoping that it will be completed within a year and half. It will change the face of Chandni Chowk,” said Dikshit.

MCD commissioner KS Mehra who was present, said the MCD has been working on the project for sometime and it will try to meet the deadline.

BJP’s political brass also claimed that no efforts were made by the Congress-led Delhi government to carry out any redevelopment work in Chandni Chowk for the Games, and now that the municipal elections are around the corner they are making such announcements to appease the people.

The project’s salient features include creation of pedestrian-oriented spaces in Chandni Chowk which will be seen as a catalyst to revitalise Shahjahanabad’s economic, infrastructure and tourist potential.

On Friday, BJP leaders will lead a march from the Civic Centre to the Union Home minister’s office in North block, demanding Delhi chief minister’s resignation.