New Delhi: The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has directed the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to investigate alleged irregularities in Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence renovation at 6, Flagstaff Road. This directive, issued on February 13, 2025, follows a factual report submitted by the CPWD, raising concerns about potential violations of building norms and government regulations during the property’s expansion.
The residence, colloquially dubbed the Sheesh Mahal by critics, became a focal point of political contention during Kejriwal’s tenure. Allegations suggest that Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence renovation transformed the bungalow into a lavish mansion spanning approximately 40,000 square yards (8 acres), with claims that standard construction guidelines were bypassed to facilitate this expansion.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been particularly vocal about these alleged irregularities. Recently, BJP functionary Vijender Gupta submitted two complaints in October 2024, prompting the CPWD’s initial inquiry. The subsequent report highlighted potential overspending and the controversial merger of adjacent properties to enlarge the original bungalow. In response, the CVC has now mandated a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the veracity of these claims.
In defense, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has refuted the allegations, asserting that Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence renovation adhered to all requisite norms and regulations. AAP representatives have criticized the media’s portrayal of the issue, alleging that restrictions on media inspections of the bungalow are intended to conceal the absence of any violations.
This controversy adds to a series of challenges faced by Kejriwal and the AAP. In September 2024, Kejriwal resigned from his position as Delhi’s Chief Minister following his release on bail after nearly six months of detention over alleged irregularities in Delhi’s liquor policy. These legal and political hurdles have significantly impacted the party’s standing and Kejriwal’s political trajectory.
The term Sheesh Mahal has been employed by political adversaries to underscore what they perceive as extravagant expenditure on the renovation, especially given AAP’s platform of promoting simplicity and transparency in governance. The outcome of the CPWD’s detailed investigation, as directed by the CVC, is anticipated to shed light on the legitimacy of Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence renovation and the processes involved in the bungalow’s expansion.
As the probe progresses, it is expected to influence public opinion and the political landscape in Delhi, particularly with upcoming elections on the horizon. Stakeholders and the public await the findings to determine whether the allegations hold merit or are part of broader political maneuvering.
