The Delhi government is preparing to convert former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence at 6, Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines, into a state guest house for visiting ministers, senior officials and government dignitaries. According to official sources, the proposal has reached its final stage and is awaiting approval from the competent authority.

If cleared, the bungalow—popularly dubbed the "Sheesh Mahal" by the BJP during a political controversy—will be repurposed to serve official government functions instead of remaining vacant.

Guest House for Ministers and Officials

Under the proposed plan, the former Chief Minister's residence will function like other state guest houses across the country, offering accommodation to visiting ministers, bureaucrats and other government guests.

Officials said the project will also include additional facilities such as dedicated parking spaces, waiting lounges and other supporting infrastructure. Guests staying at the facility will reportedly pay accommodation charges as prescribed by the government.

Bungalow Remains Vacant

The residence has remained unoccupied since Arvind Kejriwal vacated the premises after leaving office.

Despite being vacant, the property continues to be maintained by government staff. Around ten personnel are reportedly deployed for routine maintenance, ensuring that air conditioners, refrigerators, electrical systems and other installations remain functional.

Renovation Triggered Political Row

The bungalow became the centre of a major political controversy during Kejriwal's tenure after the BJP accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of spending lavishly on its renovation.

The opposition highlighted several luxury installations, including premium chandeliers, imported furnishings, smart LED lighting systems, expensive marble and granite, a spa room, massage chairs, a gym and a high-end jacuzzi, referring to the residence as the "Sheesh Mahal."

CAG Report Flagged Cost Escalation

The controversy intensified after the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) released an audit report highlighting significant cost overruns.

According to the report, the renovation project was initially estimated at ₹7.91 crore, but the final expenditure reportedly increased to ₹33.66 crore, representing a cost escalation of nearly 342%.

The audit further noted that approximately ₹18.88 crore was spent on interior decoration, furnishings and decorative items.

CBI Investigation Still Underway

The renovation expenditure has remained under scrutiny since 2022, when then Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena directed the Vigilance Department to investigate allegations of financial irregularities.

The matter was subsequently handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following a complaint filed by then Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta, who alleged irregularities in the renovation of the Chief Minister's residence.

The CBI investigation is ongoing, and no final findings have been announced.

Final Approval Awaited

While officials indicate that the proposal to convert the bungalow into a state guest house is close to receiving approval, the Delhi government has not yet issued a formal notification.

Once approved, the property is expected to be used for official government accommodation, marking a new chapter for one of Delhi's most politically debated residences.