Following a crushing defeat in the Delhi Assembly Elections, more trouble is brewing for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwal. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has ordered a detailed investigation into the renovations and luxury additions made to his former residence, 6 Flagstaff Road, also known as “Sheesh Mahal.”

The CVC has directed the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to conduct an in-depth inquiry into allegations that building norms were violated during the construction of the lavish mansion, which reportedly spans 40,000 square yards (8 acres). The probe was triggered by a complaint filed by BJP leader Vijender Gupta on October 14, 2024. Gupta accused Kejriwal of flouting building regulations in the construction of the mansion and alleged that government properties, including Plot Nos. 45 and 47 on Rajpur Road, as well as two bungalows at Flagstaff Road (8-A and 8-B), were demolished and merged into the new residence, violating floor area ratio (FAR) and ground coverage norms.

On February 13, the CVC ordered the investigation after reviewing the CPWD’s factual report on Kejriwal’s official residence. Gupta’s complaint also raised concerns about extravagant renovations at the Chief Minister’s residence, alleging that taxpayers’ money was misused for luxury additions. According to Gupta, the expenditure on lavish amenities far exceeded reasonable limits and raised serious questions about potential corruption.

On October 21, 2024, Gupta submitted a formal complaint to the CVC, detailing the financial irregularities and the misuse of public funds. The CVC took cognizance of the complaint on November 5, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations. In November, the CVC forwarded the matter to the CPWD for further investigation. The CPWD’s factual report was subsequently submitted to the CVC by December 5, prompting the commission to take further action.