Government Initiates Investigation into Alleged Misconduct at Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal'
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Synopsis
The Centre has ordered an investigation into alleged irregularities at Arvind Kejriwal's official residence, known as 'Sheesh Mahal'. The CVC has tasked the CPWD with probing possible violations in renovation practices amidst growing scrutiny from the BJP.
Key Takeaways
- Government investigation into Kejriwal's residence.
- Allegations of construction violations during renovations.
- Political pressure from BJP intensifies.
- Kejriwal vacated the bungalow amid graft charges.
- Luxury renovations highlighted in PWD report.
New Delhi, Feb 15 (NationPress) In a significant blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the government has mandated an investigation into alleged misconduct surrounding his official residence, commonly referred to as 'Sheesh Mahal'.
The Chief Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) has instructed the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to carry out an exhaustive inquiry into the claims that construction regulations were breached during the renovation and enlargement of the estate located at 6, Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines.
This colonial-era mansion and its gardens now span an impressive 40,000 square yards (8 acres) in the affluent Civil Lines area of Delhi.
The directive for the investigation was issued by the CVC on February 13, following a factual report from the CPWD regarding the contentious renovation and expansion of Kejriwal's official residence.
The inquiry arises amidst escalating political pressure from the BJP. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva had previously sent a letter to Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, requesting the annulment of the merger of four government-owned estates with 6, Flagstaff Road.
In his correspondence, Sachdeva claimed that the Chief Minister's residence had been unlawfully expanded by integrating adjacent government properties, breaching municipal and land use laws.
The BJP has also stated that if the party regains power in Delhi, the forthcoming Chief Minister will not occupy the bungalow.
Kejriwal vacated the bungalow after resigning as Chief Minister in October 2024 under severe political scrutiny from the BJP concerning corruption allegations.
The PWD report, published in October 2024, underscored opulent renovations and premium appliances installed in the bungalow. This provided leverage to the BJP to critique the AAP leadership.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized Kejriwal during a rally in Delhi, asserting that while he could have constructed a 'Sheesh Mahal', he instead chose to build over 4 crore homes for the underprivileged.
The BJP has persistently targeted Kejriwal over allegations of corruption and the misuse of public funds, particularly concerning the lavish renovations and extravagant decorations of the bungalow.
