Sheesh Mahal row: CVC orders probe into Kejriwal's former residence over irregularities in renovation

AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has ordered a probe into the renovation of 6 Flagstaff Bungalow, the former residence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and ex-Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal.

The order comes after a factual report was submitted by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) on February 13.

The CVC has directed CPWD to conduct a detailed investigation on allegations that 'building norms were floated to construct a lavish mansion covering 40,000 square yards (8 acres)'.

The bungalow labelled as 'Sheesh Mahal' by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for alleged corruption was occupied by Arvind Kejriwal as the chief minister of Delhi from 2015 till early October 2024. It was used by the party as a political weapon to target Kejriwal over corruption issues during recent Assembly polls.

The PWD report, released in October 2024, highlighted luxurious renovations and high-end appliances installed at the bungalow.

Earlier this week, newly elected BJP MLA Vijender Gupta requested Lt Governor VK Saxena to cancel the merger of four properties with the 'Sheesh Mahal'. He said that the new Chief Minister of Delhi (from BJP) will not live in the bungalow as it was under investigation over alleged irregularities.

Kejriwal transformed the bungalow into an ultra-luxurious 'Sheesh Mahal' by "illegally annexing" neighbouring government properties, Gupta wrote to the LG. He also requested the LG to expedite the ongoing investigation into these alleged violations, saying swift action is crucial for ensuring accountability and restoring public trust in government institutions.