Kejriwal’s ‘Sheeshmahal’ Faces CVC Probe

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has ordered a probe into Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence. BJP leader Vijender Gupta filed a complaint alleging illegal construction. Government properties were allegedly merged into the new residence. The CVC has directed the CPWD to conduct a detailed investigation. The alleged lavish renovation has drawn criticism.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has mandated a detailed investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the renovation of the former official residence of ex-Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The probe stems from allegations that building norms were flouted in order to transform the former Chief Minister’s official residence into what has been dubbed a “lavish mansion” spanning 40,000 square yards (8 acres). The controversy surrounding Kejriwal’s residence has been ongoing for some time.

The CVC’s directive tasks the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) with conducting a thorough investigation in response to a formal complaint lodged by BJP leader Vijender Gupta on October 14, 2024. Gupta’s complaint specifically highlights that government properties, including Plot Nos. 45 and 47 on Rajpur Road – previously housing senior officers and judges in Type-V flats – alongside two bungalows situated on Flag Staff Road, were reportedly demolished and subsequently merged into the sprawling new residence.

Gupta further alleges that the construction work undertaken at the residence blatantly violated established ground coverage and floor area ratio (FAR) norms. Moreover, he claims that the project lacked the requisite approvals for a proper layout plan, raising serious questions about the legality and ethical considerations involved in the renovation.

The timeline of events underscores the seriousness of the allegations. On October 14, 2024, BJP leader Vijender Gupta formally submitted his complaint to the CVC, alleging illegal construction at Arvind Kejriwal’s former official residence. He accused the former Delhi Chief Minister of deliberately flouting building regulations to facilitate the construction of a mansion.

Subsequently, on October 16, 2024, the CVC officially registered the complaint for examination and assessment. On November 5, 2024, the CVC acknowledged receipt of the complaint and promptly forwarded it to the CPWD for further and more in-depth investigation. The Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of CPWD was explicitly directed to carefully look into the matter and provide a detailed report.

On November 14, 2024, the complaint was formally and officially forwarded to the CVO of CPWD for all necessary action. Then, on December 24, 2024, the CVO of CPWD submitted a factual report to the CVC following an initial inquiry into the allegations. Finally, on February 13, 2025, the CVC, after a thorough review of the submitted report, ordered a detailed investigation into the expenditure incurred on renovations and luxurious additions to the Chief Minister’s residence.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

CVC orders probe into Kejriwal’s ‘Sheeshmahal’. Complaint alleges illegal construction at CM’s residence. Gov properties were allegedly merged into residence. CPWD directed to conduct detailed investigation.

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