Central vigilance orders detailed probe into Kejriwal’s ‘Sheesh Mahal' over BJP leader’s complaint

The Central Vigilance Commission has ordered a detailed probe into alleged irregularities in the construction and renovation of former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence, dubbed by the Bharatiya Janata Party as ‘Sheesh Mahal’. The probe is being ordered over complaints filed by BJP leader Vijender Gupta.

The vigilance body has directed the Central Public Works Department to conduct a detailed probe over the alleged irregularities in the renovation of 6, Flagstaff Road bungalow, the former residence of Kejriwal and expenditures incurred on interiors. The BJP had accused exorbitant amount was spent, flouting regulations, for the construction of Kejriwal’s residence.

Allegedly, several properties were merged and premium articles were used for the renovation of the bungalow. The bungalow was occupied by Kejriwal from 2015 till the beginning of October 2024. The CVC has ordered a detailed probe based on factual reports filed by CPWD regarding the alleged irregularities in the construction of the bungalow.

In his complaint, Gupta alleged building regulations were violated by Kejriwal to construct a “lavish” mansion covering 40,000 square yards (8 acres) of land. The newly elected BJP legislator charged two other government bungalows and government plots on Rajpur Road (Nos. 45 and 47), which were earlier used to house senior officials and judges in type-V flats were demolished and merged with the then property occupied by Kejriwal to build the luxurious residence.

The BJP leader alleged the properties were merged violating ground coverage and floor area ratio norms. He also charged the newly constructed bungalow lacked proper layout plan approvals.

Gupta also alleged exorbitant amount was spent on the renovation and interior decoration of the bungalow.