I have not got a house yet, says Union Minister Birender Singh

New Delhi, Jun 19: Rural Development Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh today vent unhappiness over not getting his allotted accommodation despite being a Cabinet Minister for more than seven months, saying he understood the plight of those without a house.

"Roti, kapda aur makaan are essential requirements and if all three are assured to a person then his efficiency will definite increase," he said addressing a workshop on housing.

"Till today I have not got a house though I am a Minister for the last seven months. I know what problem it causes if one does not have a house," the Minister said.

Though Singh has been allotted 22 Akbar Road bungalow, he could not occupy it as the house is yet to be vacated by senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Ambika Soni.

"Ambika Soni has not vacated yet and has got the court stay (against vacating)," he said. Singh, who is entitled to stay in a type VIII bungalow, is currently staying in a smaller house at Lodhi Road.

Besides Soni, another Congress leader Kumari Selja has also refused to vacate her 7, Motilal Nehru Marg bungalow.

Both have moved court against the government order for vacating their respective bungalows for which they are not entitled, said a senior Urban Development Ministry official.

PTI