New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu has granted approval for the registration of an FIR against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in connection with an alleged ₹1,300 crore scam related to the construction of classrooms in Delhi government schools, sources said.

This development comes after the Delhi government’s Vigilance Directorate recommended a probe into the matter in 2022, citing serious financial irregularities in the project during the tenure of Sisodia and Jain as ministers in the Arvind Kejriwal-led government.

What is the ₹1,300 Crore Classroom Scam?

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), in a report dated February 17, 2020, highlighted "glaring irregularities" in the construction of over 2,400 classrooms across Delhi government schools. The key allegations include:

Massive cost escalation – The estimated cost of the project allegedly increased by more than ₹1,300 crore.
Unjustified extra payments – Several payments were reportedly made to contractors without proper justification.
Violation of tender norms – The report suggests bypassing standard government procedures in awarding contracts.
Excess classrooms built in select schools – Many schools allegedly received more classrooms than required, while others remained neglected.

The CVC report was submitted to the Delhi Chief Secretary, who then referred it to the Vigilance Directorate for further investigation.

FIR Approved Against Manish Sisodia & Satyendar Jain

Following the CVC report and subsequent vigilance probe, President Droupadi Murmu has now approved the filing of an FIR against former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and former Health Minister Satyendar Jain.

Both leaders previously held key portfolios in the Delhi government and were directly involved in the decision-making process regarding the construction of classrooms.

Legal & Political Ramifications

What Happens Next?

The FIR will be registered, and a full-fledged criminal investigation will commence.
Agencies such as the CBI and ED may get involved if financial fraud and money laundering charges are found.
Further questioning of government officials and contractors involved in the project is expected.

Political Reactions

The development is set to create a political storm, with AAP likely to claim political vendetta, while opposition parties, including the BJP, may use the allegations to target Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.

What Were the Allegations Against Manish Sisodia & Satyendar Jain?

Manish Sisodia (Former Education Minister & Deputy CM)

• Headed the Delhi Education Ministry and was responsible for school infrastructure projects.
• Allegedly approved inflated contracts leading to massive cost escalations.
• Previously arrested in the Delhi Liquor Policy case, now facing another major corruption probe.

Satyendar Jain (Former Health Minister)

• Though primarily in charge of health, Jain was allegedly involved in overseeing tenders and financial approvals.
• Currently in jail over a separate money laundering case investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

What Has AAP Said About the FIR?

While AAP has yet to make an official statement on the FIR, party leaders are expected to:
Claim political vendetta by the BJP-led central government.
Defend their education reforms, highlighting Delhi’s improved school infrastructure.
Accuse central agencies of targeting opposition leaders before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

What Next for Delhi Politics?

With key AAP leaders facing multiple corruption allegations, pressure is mounting on Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to respond.
Will Kejriwal sack Sisodia and Jain permanently from the party?
Will fresh investigations target more AAP ministers?
How will this impact AAP’s image before the 2024 elections?

These questions will define the political landscape in the coming days.

1. What is the ₹1,300 crore scam about?

The scam relates to irregularities in the construction of over 2,400 classrooms in Delhi government schools, allegedly leading to huge financial losses.

2. What role did Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain play?

Both leaders were senior ministers when the project was executed. Sisodia handled education, while Jain oversaw tenders and infrastructure approvals.

3. What happens now that the President has approved the FIR?

A full-fledged criminal investigation will follow, with possible arrests, questioning, and legal proceedings.

4. How does this impact Arvind Kejriwal and AAP?

This further damages AAP’s clean governance image and raises questions about corruption in the Delhi government.

5. Is this linked to other cases against AAP leaders?

Yes. Both Sisodia and Jain already face corruption charges in separate cases, including the Delhi Liquor Policy case and money laundering investigations.