Jharkhand's 'Sheesh Mahal'? Hemant Soren's Rs 69-Crore CM Residence Triggers Political Row

Last Updated:April 01, 2026, 19:42 IST

Plan for Jharkhand CM's new residence costing about Rs 68.91 crore sparks row, BJP calls it extravagant and claims cost may top 100 crore.

The planned construction of Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s new residence, estimated at nearly Rs 69 crore, has triggered a political controversy, with the BJP calling it a potential “Sheesh Mahal" and accusing the state government of lavish spending.

The ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), however, defended the project as a routine infrastructure requirement for the office of the Chief Minister.

BJP state president Aditya Sahu claimed that the final cost could surpass Rs 100 crore once interiors and furnishings are included, making it one of the most expensive official residences in the country after Telangana.

Government tender documents accessed by The Indian Express show the base estimate of Rs 68.91 crore includes GST, consultancy, and statutory charges. The main building, comprising a basement, ground floor, and first floor, accounts for Rs 47.80 crore and covers civil works, internal electrification, plumbing, fire safety, HVAC systems, and lifts.

The project also plans extensive landscaping, a water fountain (Rs 1.99 crore), boundary walls and gates, parking facilities, sewage treatment, stormwater drainage, and external surveillance, bringing the core cost to over Rs 68 crore after taxes and additional provisions.

BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo told the publication, “In a state where the government says it does not have funds for schemes like Abua Awas or scholarships, spending such an amount on the Chief Minister’s residence stands in stark contrast."

The JMM countered, with spokesperson Manoj Pandey stating, “This is a government project aimed at strengthening infrastructure. The CM’s residence is not for one person; whoever holds the office in the future will be using it."

“Those raising objections should also look at their own priorities. We have seen huge expenditures elsewhere, including projects like Central Vista (in Delhi) and luxury spending by top leaders. Compared to that, this is an institutional requirement," he added.

Pandey also accused the BJP of politicising the issue and noted that central funds for welfare schemes in Jharkhand had been withheld, affecting housing and drinking water projects.

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