New Delhi: An inspection of a newly laid road in west Delhi's Tilak Nagar turned heated on Sunday, September 27, after local AAP MLA Jarnail Singh pulled up parts of the road surface by hand to question its quality in front of Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma.
The Road Quality Row
Verma had stopped to inspect the under-construction road when Singh arrived at the site. Video of the inspection shows Singh lifting portions of the freshly laid surface and showing the loose material to the minister, alleging that the work was of poor quality. Supporters and media were present as the two sides exchanged heated remarks, and the situation grew chaotic, with pushing and shoving visible among some people at the spot.
Verma defended the work, saying it was progressing well, that residents had told him the road had not been rebuilt in 15 years, and that he had personally called Singh three times. Whether the material that came off was substandard or part of ongoing, unfinished work has not been independently established.
Slap Caught in Separate Video
In a separate video from the same inspection, Verma is seen turning towards Singh's aide, Sahib Singh, who was recording the exchange, pulling down his phone and slapping him, before a security guard separated them. The aide has filed a police complaint. Verma said he lost his temper after one of Singh's workers abused his family. According to one report, he also alleged that the MLA had sought a commission. Singh has not publicly responded to that claim.
Political Reactions
Jarnail Singh shared the video on X, accusing the minister of "thuggery." AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal has demanded Verma's arrest.
Sources
The Tribune, WION, The Daily Jagran, Sunday Guardian; video via LastMin India and Jarnail Singh on X.
Latest Development
As of September 29, it is not known whether an FIR has been registered on the aide's complaint. This story will be updated.