Kejriwal Summoned by Delhi Assembly Panel Over ‘Phansi Ghar’ Row; Atishi Slams BJP

A fresh political controversy has erupted in Delhi after former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was summoned by the Delhi Assembly’s Privileges Committee in connection with the “Phansi Ghar” or execution chamber row at the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The committee has asked Kejriwal to appear before it on March 6 to explain claims made by the previous government regarding the existence of a British-era execution chamber within the Assembly premises.

The issue dates back to 2022 when the Aam Aadmi Party government inaugurated a room inside the Assembly complex, claiming it was a hidden execution chamber used by the British to hang Indian freedom fighters during colonial rule. According to the government at the time, the room was discovered during renovation work and contained items such as ropes and glass marbles that allegedly indicated its historical use for executions.

However, the claim has been strongly disputed by the Bharatiya Janata Party. BJP leaders argued that historical records from the National Archives suggest the room was actually used as a staff facility, often referred to as a “tiffin room,” rather than a place for executions. The party also alleged that public funds were spent to renovate and showcase the room as a historical site without adequate evidence supporting the claim.

The dispute prompted the Assembly to refer the matter to the Privileges Committee to determine whether the House had been misled regarding the nature and historical significance of the room. The panel is expected to examine documents, testimonies and other records related to the renovation and inauguration of the space.

Responding to the summons, Kejriwal confirmed that he would appear before the committee and cooperate with the inquiry. He also requested that the proceedings be live-streamed so that the public can watch the investigation and judge the matter for themselves.

Meanwhile, senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi strongly criticised the BJP’s position on the issue. She accused the party of dismissing evidence of colonial atrocities and questioned why the BJP was opposing recognition of a site that could represent the suffering of freedom fighters during the British era.

Atishi also alleged that the BJP was attempting to turn a historical discovery into a political controversy. According to her, the earlier government had merely highlighted an important reminder of India’s struggle for independence during renovation work at the Assembly building.

The controversy has once again triggered a political war of words between the AAP and the BJP, with both sides accusing each other of distorting facts. While the BJP insists the claim of an execution chamber is historically inaccurate, AAP leaders maintain that the site reflects the dark legacy of colonial rule. The Privileges Committee’s proceedings are expected to play a key role in determining the authenticity of the claims and whether the Assembly was provided with misleading information about the so-called “Phansi Ghar.”