The Central Vigilance Commission has launched a detailed investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the renovation of 6, Flagstaff Road, the former official residence of ex-Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. This action follows a factual report submitted by the Central Public Works Department on February 13, 2025.
The CVC has directed the CPWD to thoroughly examine claims that building regulations were violated during the expansion of the property, resulting in a lavish mansion spanning approximately 40,000 square yards . The residence, colloquially termed “Sheesh Mahal” by opposition parties, has been at the center of political controversy.
Arvind Kejriwal occupied the 6, Flagstaff Road bungalow as his official residence from 2015 until October 2024, when he vacated the premises following his resignation as Chief Minister. The property, originally comprising multiple government-owned plots and bungalows, was reportedly amalgamated and extensively renovated during his tenure.
The investigation was prompted by a complaint from Bharatiya Janata Party leader Vijender Gupta, who, on October 14, 2024, alleged that Kejriwal had contravened building norms to construct an opulent mansion. Gupta’s complaint highlighted the demolition of existing structures, including Plot Nos. 45 and 47 on Rajpur Road and two bungalows , which were allegedly merged into the new residence without proper approvals for layout plans, ground coverage, or floor area ratio .
In response to these allegations, the CVC registered the complaint for further examination on October 16, 2024, and subsequently forwarded it to the CPWD for a detailed investigation in November 2024. The CPWD’s factual report, submitted on February 13, 2025, has now led to the initiation of a comprehensive probe into the matter.
The financial aspects of the renovation have also come under scrutiny. A recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General revealed that the total expenditure on the renovation of the Chief Minister’s official residence escalated to ₹33.66 crore, significantly surpassing the initial estimate of ₹7.9 crore. This substantial increase in costs has raised questions about potential financial mismanagement and misuse of public funds.
BJP spokesperson C.R. Kesavan criticized the expenditure, accusing Kejriwal of misusing public funds for personal luxury during a period when the city was grappling with pressing issues. Kesavan stated, “The real cost of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ is estimated to be between ₹75-80 crore, a blatant misuse of taxpayer money.”
In defense, the Aam Aadmi Party has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. Party representatives argue that the renovations were necessary due to structural issues in the old building, including roof collapses during safety audits conducted in mid-2020. They assert that all procedures were followed transparently and that the expenditure was justified to ensure the safety and functionality of the official residence.
The political ramifications of this investigation are significant, especially with upcoming elections in Delhi. The BJP has intensified its criticism of Kejriwal and the AAP, portraying the renovation as emblematic of misgovernance and financial impropriety. Conversely, AAP leaders contend that the probe is a deliberate attempt to tarnish the party’s image and distract from their governance achievements.
As the CPWD commences its detailed inquiry, it will examine all aspects of the renovation project, including adherence to building codes, the legitimacy of the property amalgamation, and the justification for the escalated costs. The findings of this investigation are anticipated to have far-reaching implications for both the involved individuals and the broader political landscape in Delhi.
Meta Plans Undersea Cable Project To Connect India, US 