Sat Feb 15 04:45:05 UTC 2025: ## Central Government Orders Probe into Kejriwal’s Former Residence Renovation

**New Delhi** – The Indian central government has launched an investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the renovation of the former official residence of ex-Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The probe, ordered following a February 13th report by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), will examine claims that building norms were violated during the extensive refurbishment of the 6 Flagstaff Road bungalow.

The CPWD’s inquiry will focus on allegations that four government properties were illegally merged with the bungalow to facilitate its expansion into what the BJP has dubbed the “Sheeshmahal” (Palace of Mirrors), a sprawling 8-acre residence. These allegations were highlighted in a letter to Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena by Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, who urged the annulment of the property merger. Sachdeva further pledged that the BJP, newly returned to power in Delhi after a landslide victory in the 2025 Assembly elections, will not use the bungalow as the Chief Minister’s residence.

The renovations, detailed in a CPWD report released in October 2024, featured luxurious amenities and high-end appliances, becoming a focal point of the BJP’s election campaign. Prime Minister Narendra Modi alluded to the controversy during rallies, contrasting the alleged extravagance with his government’s affordable housing initiatives. Kejriwal dismissed the accusations as politically motivated.

The BJP’s sustained two-year campaign targeting Kejriwal for alleged corruption and misuse of public funds regarding the bungalow ultimately contributed to their electoral success. The BJP secured 48 of 70 assembly seats, ending the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) rule in Delhi. The AAP won 22 seats, while the Congress drew a blank. The investigation is expected to determine whether building regulations were indeed breached during the renovation.

Read More