Centre Orders Probe into Kejriwal’s ‘Sheesh Mahal’ Renovation Allegations
In a new setback for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, the Centre has ordered an investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the renovation and expansion of his official residence, famously known as ‘Sheesh Mahal’. The Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) has directed the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations that construction norms were violated during the expansion of the mansion located at 6, Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines, Delhi.
The colonial-style mansion, which occupies an area of 40,000 square yards (8 acres) in the upscale Civil Lines area, has been at the center of controversy due to its lavish renovations. The probe was initiated after the CPWD submitted a factual report regarding the project, which had garnered significant attention due to the reported violations of municipal and land-use regulations.
The BJP, which has been highly critical of Kejriwal’s administration, has pressed for action, with Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva writing to the Lieutenant Governor, urging the annulment of the merger of four government-owned properties with the official residence. The BJP has accused Kejriwal of illegally expanding the bungalow, violating city zoning laws. The party also stated that once it forms the next government in Delhi, the newly-elected chief minister would not reside in the mansion.
The renovation project of Kejriwal’s official residence had previously sparked political controversy, particularly after a report from the Public Works Department (PWD) in October 2024 highlighted the opulent upgrades, including high-end appliances and luxury fixtures. This fueled allegations of corruption and misuse of public funds, with critics pointing to the extravagant nature of the renovations while Kejriwal’s administration continued to face challenges in other areas.
In light of these developments, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously attacked Kejriwal, saying that while the Delhi Chief Minister could have built a ‘Sheesh Mahal’, he instead chose to focus on providing housing for the poor. The ongoing scrutiny of the luxury renovations has become a key issue for the BJP, which has repeatedly targeted the AAP leadership over these allegations.
The investigation is likely to escalate the political tension surrounding Kejriwal, who had vacated the bungalow after resigning as Chief Minister in October 2024 amid intense pressure from the BJP over accusations of corruption. The unfolding inquiry into the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ renovations marks another chapter in the growing political and legal challenges faced by the AAP leader.
