New Delhi: Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) president Ajay Maken, on Monday, alleged that the AAP government’s project to install CCTV cameras in the national capital was a “big scam” and that to cover it up it was seeking escape route by indulging in quarrels with lieutenant-governor (L-G) Anil Baijal.

Mr Maken said that on October 13, 2015, the government had granted approval for a Rs 130 crore project to install CCTV cameras in Delhi. For this, tender was floated in November 2017, and two bids were received. Of the two bids, one was successful. He said that this tender was cancelled on February 8 and approval was given for a fresh tender with modified conditions for a Rs 571.40 crore project for installing CCTV cameras. Of the total amount, 44 per cent money, amounting to Rs 250 crore, was set apart for the maintenance of the CCTV cameras.

Mr Maken said it was very shocking that in April 2017, the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC), which is headed by Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and PWD minister Satyender Jain as member, took the decision that the project related to the installation of CCTV cameras in Delhi will be put before the Cabinet with a detailed action plan. This, he said, showed that the project needed the approval of the Cabinet as well. He said it was very strange that when this project did not get the sanction of the competent authority, how was RFP invited and how did PWD finalise the tender.

Addressing a press conference, Mr Maken said chief minister Arvind Kejriwal didn’t do anything for the development of Delhi in his three-and-a-half years in power. He said that whatever works AAP government did, was mired in corruption.

Among the prominent leaders present at the conference were former city minister Haroon Yusuf, chief spokesperson Sharmistha Mukherjee, senior leader Chattar Singh, Delhi professional Congress chairman Aman Panwar, Delhi Congress’ RTI cell chief Vedpal, and chief media co-ordinator Mehndi Majid.

Mr Maken further said that Mr Kejriwal has not initiated any action against the erring ministers and officers who are involved in this “CCTV camera scam.”