Alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar has once again targeted Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Satyendar Jain, making fresh allegations in a letter written from jail.

In the letter, Chandrashekhar reportedly claimed that he would reveal details of “three more scams”, using the phrase “3 more scams in loading” while referring to his allegations against the former Delhi Chief Minister and former Delhi minister.

The allegations are yet to be independently established.

Fresh Letter From Jail

Chandrashekhar has repeatedly made allegations against Kejriwal and Jain through letters and complaints while being incarcerated. His latest communication has once again brought the political controversy surrounding his earlier claims into focus.

His previous allegations against the AAP leaders included claims of financial transactions and alleged extortion while he was lodged in prison. The allegations have been rejected by AAP leaders in the past.

Earlier Allegations Against Jain

Chandrashekhar had earlier alleged that former Delhi minister Satyendar Jain demanded money from him while he was in Tihar Jail.

He had claimed that he was asked to pay money as “protection” in prison and alleged that payments were made through intermediaries. These claims triggered a political confrontation between the AAP and BJP in 2022. (The Economic Times)

Jain and the AAP have denied the allegations.

Claims Involving Kejriwal

Chandrashekhar had also alleged that he paid more than ₹50 crore to the AAP in exchange for an important party position and assistance in securing a Rajya Sabha nomination.

He further alleged that Kejriwal had asked him to arrange financial contributions from other individuals for the party. These allegations were also rejected by AAP leaders, who accused the BJP of using Chandrashekhar's statements for political purposes. (Rediff)

AAP's Response to Allegations

The AAP has consistently dismissed Chandrashekhar's allegations and questioned his credibility. In earlier instances, party leaders described him as a conman and alleged that his claims were politically motivated.

AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar also recently defended Satyendar Jain amid allegations surrounding a separate tender-related case, arguing that Jain was already in jail when the tender at the centre of the allegations was issued. (aam admi party)

‘Three More Scams’

The latest letter is significant because Chandrashekhar has indicated that he intends to make additional allegations.

His “three more scams” claim could lead to another political confrontation if he releases further details or documents supporting his accusations.

However, the claims made by an accused person in a criminal case should be treated as allegations unless independently verified or established through investigation or judicial proceedings.

Political Row May Intensify

The latest development comes as political tensions surrounding allegations of corruption against former AAP leaders remain active.

Chandrashekhar's earlier claims have repeatedly generated political exchanges between the AAP and BJP. His latest communication could revive that confrontation, particularly if further allegations or purported evidence are released.

For now, the details of the three alleged scams referred to in the letter have not been independently established.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that his Instagram account has been blocked in India, alleging that social media platform Meta was restricting accounts of people raising questions over the Centre's ethanol policy and paper leak issues.

In a post on X, Kejriwal said Meta had failed to provide any clear explanation despite repeated attempts to seek clarification. He also urged users facing similar restrictions to contact him.

Kejriwal Alleges Government Pressure

Kejriwal alleged that the Central Government was pressuring Meta to block the accounts of individuals speaking against the ethanol blending policy and recent examination paper leak controversies.

He appealed to Meta not to succumb to what he described as government pressure and urged the company to operate independently.

The AAP leader also shared a screenshot from his Instagram account status page, which displayed the message "Unavailable in some locations."

Claims Meta Confirmed Restriction

According to Kejriwal, after approaching Meta's India office, he was informed that his Instagram account had been restricted and was currently unavailable for users in India.

He criticised the platform for not offering any detailed explanation regarding the action, describing the company's response as inadequate.

As of Thursday, Meta had not issued an official public statement regarding Kejriwal's claims or clarified the reason behind the reported restriction.

Users Report Similar Issues

Kejriwal said several social media users had informed him that their Instagram accounts had also become inaccessible.

He invited affected users to reach out so that the issue could be documented collectively, suggesting that the reported restrictions were not isolated incidents.

Row Comes Amid Meta-Government Dispute

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Meta in India following the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook video related to examination reforms and paper leaks.

The video, posted on July 23, briefly became unavailable before being restored by Meta.

The incident prompted the government to seek an explanation from the company, with parliamentary leaders questioning the platform's content moderation practices.

Government Engages Meta

According to government sources cited by PTI, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologised to the Indian government on Wednesday over the temporary removal of the Prime Minister's video.

The company also reportedly acknowledged concerns relating to content moderation, deepfake content and child sexual abuse material on its platforms during discussions with government officials.

The controversy has intensified the ongoing debate over the role of social media platforms, intermediary responsibilities and content regulation in India.

No Official Response Yet

While Kejriwal has publicly alleged that his account has been restricted in India, Meta has not officially confirmed whether any action has been taken against his Instagram profile or the reasons behind it.

The matter is expected to draw further political attention as debates over platform accountability, digital regulation and freedom of expression continue.

New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that his Instagram account has been restricted for users in India. He said he has repeatedly sought clarification from Meta, but has not received any official explanation so far.

Kejriwal also alleged that several other users had informed him that their Instagram accounts had faced similar restrictions. He appealed to affected users to get in touch with him and share their experiences.

Kejriwal Alleges Government Pressure

In a post on social media platform X, Kejriwal claimed that the government was pressuring Meta to restrict the accounts of people speaking about issues such as the ethanol policy and the paper leak controversy.

He alleged that social media platforms should operate independently and should not come under political influence. According to him, Meta should provide a transparent explanation if any action has been taken against his account.

Screenshot Shared on Social Media

To support his claim, Kejriwal shared a screenshot of his Instagram account status. The screenshot displayed the message "Unavailable in Some Locations," which, according to him, indicates that his account is not accessible in certain regions, including India.

He said officials at Meta's India office informed him that his account was unavailable in the country, but he added that the company had not provided any formal clarification regarding the reason behind the restriction.

Meta Yet to Respond

As of now, Meta has not issued any official statement regarding Kejriwal's claim or the alleged restriction on his Instagram account.

The company has also not commented on the allegations that accounts discussing specific public issues are being selectively limited.

What Does "Unavailable in Some Locations" Mean?

According to Instagram's account status system, the message "Unavailable in Some Locations" generally indicates that certain content—or, in some cases, an account—may not be visible in specific countries or regions because of local legal requirements or platform policies.

It does not necessarily mean that the account has been suspended or permanently removed. In many cases, the account continues to remain active and accessible in other parts of the world, while access is restricted only in selected locations.

Issue Sparks Fresh Debate

Kejriwal's claim has triggered a fresh discussion on the role of social media platforms in content moderation and regional access restrictions. While the AAP leader has questioned the alleged restriction and sought an explanation from Meta, the company's official position on the matter is still awaited.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and senior party leaders staged a sit-in protest in the national capital on Tuesday after Delhi Police stopped their march towards the Prime Minister's residence over the Centre's E20 fuel policy.

The protest, held on Firoz Shah Road, saw Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and other AAP leaders accusing the Union government of ignoring public concerns over ethanol-blended fuel. The party claimed it was carrying petitions signed by more than two lakh people demanding a review of the policy.

Police Stop March to PM's Residence

AAP leaders had planned to march to the Prime Minister's residence to submit a memorandum against the E20 policy.

However, Delhi Police halted the procession before it reached its destination, following which Kejriwal and several party leaders sat on the road in protest.

The party said it had informed the police in advance about its programme and maintained that the march was intended only to submit public petitions to the Prime Minister.

Kejriwal Seeks Meeting With PM

Addressing supporters before and during the protest, Kejriwal said he had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modiseeking an appointment to discuss concerns over E20 fuel but had not received a response.

He said the AAP wanted to hand over petitions signed by over two lakh citizens and urged the Prime Minister to meet the delegation.

Kejriwal also reiterated the party's demand that fuel stations continue to provide both conventional petrol and E20 fuel, while calling for a reduction in the price of ethanol-blended petrol.

Allegations Over Ethanol Policy

During the protest, Kejriwal alleged that the Centre was importing ethanol from the United States under pressure from US President Donald Trump.

He claimed that ethanol imported from the US was being imposed on Indian consumers and alleged that the policy could adversely affect a large number of existing vehicles.

The AAP chief described the issue as one that could trigger a nationwide public movement and said a campaign "bigger than the NEET protests" would be required to force the government to reconsider its policy.

These allegations have been made by the AAP leadership. The Union government has not accepted these claims.

AAP Says Public Concerns Ignored

AAP leaders accompanying the protest claimed that many vehicle owners had reported problems linked to the use of E20 fuel.

Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bhardwaj said the party had repeatedly appealed for dialogue with the Centre and accused the government of refusing to engage with citizens on the issue.

AAP leader Anurag Dhanda also alleged that crores of vehicles could be affected by the policy and urged the Centre to reconsider its implementation.

BJP Rejects Allegations

The Bharatiya Janata Party dismissed the AAP's campaign, calling it politically motivated.

BJP MP Tarun Chugh described the protest as "absurd" and said the ethanol blending programme had been introduced after scientific evaluation.

He argued that ethanol blending benefits farmers by increasing demand for agricultural produce used in ethanol production and accused the AAP of spreading misinformation.

Debate Over E20 Policy Continues

The protest comes amid growing political debate over the rollout of E20 petrol, following recent government acknowledgements that prolonged use of E20 fuel may require replacement of certain rubber components in older BS-III vehicles, though authorities have clarified that engine replacement is not required.

With the AAP stepping up its campaign and the BJP defending the policy, the issue is expected to remain a key political flashpoint in the coming weeks.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is set to organize a National Town Hall on Saturday to raise concerns over the implementation of E20 fuel, with party chief Arvind Kejriwal demanding that the Centre withdraw the policy and initiate a broader public discussion.

The event is expected to bring together automobile experts, vehicle owners and industry stakeholders to discuss the impact of E20 petrol, particularly on vehicles manufactured before 2023. According to the party, the programme will begin at 12 noon at Delhi's Constitution Club, while participants from outside the capital can join virtually.

Kejriwal Alleges Vehicle Owners Are Facing Losses

Addressing a press conference earlier this week, Kejriwal claimed that the introduction of E20 fuel has created difficulties for millions of motorists. He alleged that vehicle owners are reporting reduced mileage, higher maintenance costs and engine-related issues after using the fuel blend.

He urged the Central Government to intervene before the issue escalates into a larger public movement, stating that concerns raised by consumers should be addressed through dialogue.

What Is E20 Fuel?

E20 fuel is a blend comprising 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. The policy is part of India's strategy to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, cut carbon emissions and increase the use of domestically produced biofuels.

However, opposition to the fuel has grown, particularly among owners of petrol vehicles manufactured before 2023. Many consumers have claimed that their vehicles experience lower fuel efficiency and increased wear and tear after using the higher ethanol blend.

Town Hall to Include Experts and Vehicle Owners

AAP said the Town Hall will provide a platform for technical experts, automobile users and those who claim to have been affected by E20 fuel. According to the party, every participant will have an opportunity to present their views before a future course of action is decided.

The party has also announced that people from outside Delhi can participate online after registering through a WhatsApp link shared by the organisers.

Online Petition Crosses Two Lakh Signatures

Ahead of the Town Hall, AAP launched an online petition addressed to the Prime Minister seeking a rollback of the E20 fuel policy. The party claims that the petition has received more than two lakh signatures.

AAP leaders have said the memorandum, along with the petition, will be submitted to the Prime Minister after the Town Hall concludes.

Government Yet to Respond

The Central Government has consistently promoted ethanol blending as an important step towards energy security, reducing fuel imports and supporting farmers through increased demand for ethanol production. While the government maintains that newer vehicles are being designed to support higher ethanol blends, concerns regarding compatibility with older vehicles continue to be debated.

The outcome of Saturday's Town Hall is expected to add momentum to the ongoing discussion over India's transition towards cleaner and alternative fuels.

A fresh political confrontation has emerged over the Centre's E20 ethanol-blended fuel policy, with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal announcing a nationwide campaign against the move while Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari prepares legal action over deepfake videos circulating on social media. The developments come just days after former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid the NEET-UG controversy, with opposition parties attempting to build momentum around another public issue. According to reports, Gadkari has secured the court's permission to initiate legal proceedings against major social media platforms over AI-generated deepfake videos that allegedly link him to profiteering from the ethanol-blended fuel policy. The minister has not publicly commented on the legal strategy, but the move signals a tougher response to online misinformation.

The controversy has also taken a political turn after Arvind Kejriwal announced a "National Town Hall" scheduled for the coming weekend to rally public support against the E20 policy. Addressing a press conference, the former Delhi Chief Minister said his party plans to collect more than 200,000 petitions from across the country and submit them to Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. Kejriwal argued that concerns surrounding E20 should be addressed before they escalate into a larger public movement. Referring to the recent resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, he claimed that public pressure had forced the government to act in the education sector and urged the Centre to respond similarly on the ethanol issue. The AAP has indicated that it will continue its outreach campaign in multiple states over the next few days.

The Narendra Modi government has consistently defended the E20 ethanol-blended petrol policy, rejecting allegations that the fuel causes engine failures. Officials have maintained that while there may be a marginal reduction in fuel economy in some vehicles, the policy is intended to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, support domestic ethanol production, and lower emissions. The government has repeatedly said that compatible vehicles are designed to operate safely on E20 fuel. However, the issue has gained traction online in recent weeks, with viral memes, criticism from political opponents, and misleading content circulating across social media platforms. As legal proceedings over the deepfake videos move forward and political campaigning intensifies, the E20 policy is expected to remain a key point of debate in the coming days, both inside and outside the political arena.

Congress, the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal have all sharpened their attacks on the Bhagwant Mann government, calling for Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains and Health Minister Balbir Singh to step down. With Assembly elections already looming over Punjab's political calendar, opposition parties are framing a simple question: if the Centre can remove its own minister over paper leak allegations, why can't Punjab do the same?

Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring welcomed Pradhan's resignation as a victory for young people's struggle, and used the moment to demand that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Bains resign as well, arguing the same standard of accountability applied nationally should apply in Punjab. Warring listed a string of alleged paper leaks during the AAP government's tenure — covering a pharmacy recruitment exam, the Class 12 English exam, Group-B recruitment papers, the Naib Tehsildar recruitment exam, the Agriculture Officer recruitment exam, and a pharmacist recruitment exam conducted by Baba Farid University of Health Sciences. He alleged that whenever young people raised their voices against these irregularities, the Mann government responded with police batons rather than addressing their concerns, and recalled that senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia had once claimed a responsible minister would be forced to resign if exam papers leaked in Punjab. Warring said it has been six months since the Group-B paper leak with no accountability fixed, and warned that if the education minister doesn't resign, Congress would take to Punjab's streets the way protesters have in Delhi.

The BJP joined the push through Delhi minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, who accused AAP and Arvind Kejriwal of double standards, asking why leaders who actively support student protests in Delhi stay silent on Punjab's own students. Sirsa also invoked CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke's past promise to raise his voice over any paper leak in Punjab, arguing the moment has come for that commitment to be honoured.

The Akali Dal took a similarly aggressive line, with its leaders arguing that AAP demands swift resignations whenever paper leaks occur in other states or at the Centre, while staying completely silent when its own state's exam system repeatedly fails. Akali MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal accused the government of gambling with young people's futures, saying Punjab has seen six exam scandals in four and a half years, leaving roughly five lakh young people in limbo. She directly named Kejriwal and Mann in her criticism, arguing both bear full responsibility and should dismiss both the education and health ministers.

Congress and the Akali Dal separately pointed out that AAP leaders, including Kejriwal, have been visible at Delhi's Jantar Mantar protests criticising the Centre over the NEET paper leak, while remaining quiet on Punjab's own recruitment exam failures — a contrast opposition parties are using to accuse the party of applying one standard to itself and another to its rivals.

The Punjab government has not issued any official response to the resignation demands so far. With opposition pressure building from three directions simultaneously and elections approaching, the paper leak issue looks set to become a significant flashpoint in Punjab's political conversation in the days ahead.

Senior political leaders from both the ruling NDA and the Opposition visited Delhi hospitals on Tuesday to meet people injured during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) march to Parliament, as the confrontation over the police crackdown continued to dominate the political landscape.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Union Health Minister JP Nadda, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal separately met injured protesters receiving treatment at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital, turning the hospital into the centre of the ongoing political battle over Monday's violence.

Rahul, Priyanka Renew Demand for Education Minister's Resignation

Before visiting the injured students, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi addressed the media in Parliament, strongly criticising the Centre over the police action against protesters.

Rahul Gandhi alleged that students raising concerns over examination paper leaks, recruitment delays, and employment issues were met with force instead of dialogue. He demanded that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resign, arguing that the government had failed to protect students' interests.

He also accused the Centre of suppressing the voices of young people and said the concerns raised by students reflected wider anxiety over education and employment opportunities.

Priyanka Gandhi echoed the demand, stating that the Opposition had repeatedly sought discussions on paper leaks and education reforms but was not allowed to debate the issue adequately in Parliament.

Parliament Disruptions Continue

Congress President and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge also criticised the government's handling of the protests.

Kharge questioned the police action against demonstrators and alleged that Parliament was prevented from functioning properly on an issue of national importance. He argued that if such matters could not be discussed inside Parliament, democratic institutions were being weakened.

The Opposition has consistently sought a discussion on the alleged examination paper leaks and the police action during the Monsoon Session.

Kejriwal Meets Injured Protesters

AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, accompanied by party leaders Sanjay Singh and Saurabh Bharadwaj, visited RML Hospital and interacted with injured protesters.

After the visit, Kejriwal accused the central government of using excessive force against demonstrators and assured injured students that the Aam Aadmi Party would provide legal and other necessary assistance.

The party has also announced legal support for those arrested during the protests.

JP Nadda Reviews Medical Treatment

Union Health Minister JP Nadda also visited RML Hospital later in the day to review medical arrangements for those injured during the clashes.

Nadda interacted with patients, met doctors, and assessed the treatment being provided before leaving the hospital. His visit focused on reviewing healthcare facilities rather than addressing the political controversy surrounding the incident.

Violence During Parliament March

The CJP organised the Parliament march to protest issues including alleged examination paper leaks, delays in government recruitment, and demands for reforms in the education system.

The demonstration turned violent on Monday after clashes broke out between protesters and Delhi Police at multiple locations in central Delhi. Police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

According to Delhi Police, more than 118 police personnel were injured, while around 60 protesters also sustained injuries during the violence. Several injured protesters were admitted to hospitals across Delhi, including RML Hospital.

The incident has since triggered sharp political exchanges, with the Opposition accusing the Centre of suppressing democratic protests, while the government has defended the police action, citing violence during the demonstration.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday met people injured during the police action against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest and announced legal assistance for those detained. Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal sharply criticised the Centre over the police crackdown, alleging excessive use of force against protesters and demanding transparency regarding those taken into custody.

Kejriwal later visited Parliament Street Police Station in Delhi, where several protesters were reportedly being held, and sought details from senior police officials about the cases registered following the demonstration. He also said he would visit Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital to meet those injured during the police action.

AAP Announces Legal Assistance

To support those affected by the police action, the AAP chief announced a legal assistance helpline and appealed to protesters and their families to contact the party if they required legal support.

According to Kejriwal, individuals arrested in connection with the CJP protest could seek assistance through the helpline, where a dedicated legal team would provide guidance and representation if required.

Demands Transparency on Detentions

Kejriwal urged the Delhi Police to publicly release the complete list of First Information Reports (FIRs) registered in connection with the protest. He also demanded details of those allegedly detained without formal FIRs, including the locations where they were being held.

He said such information was essential so that families searching for missing relatives could know their whereabouts.

Criticises Police Action

During the press conference, Kejriwal alleged that videos circulating on social media showed excessive force being used against protesters. Referring to these videos, he claimed that peaceful demonstrators, including young participants, had been subjected to unnecessary force.

He further criticised the government's handling of the protest and accused the authorities of attempting to intimidate citizens participating in demonstrations.

Visit to Police Stations

The AAP chief stated that after meeting injured protesters at the hospital, he would also visit Parliament Street and Mandir Marg Police Stations, where, according to the party, several protesters had been detained.

Kejriwal said he intended to seek official information regarding those arrested and the legal proceedings initiated after the protest.

Political Reactions Continue

The police action on CJP protesters has triggered a political confrontation, with opposition parties questioning the government's response to the demonstration, while authorities have maintained that law enforcement acted to maintain public order.

The incident has also intensified the ongoing political debate over the handling of protests and public demonstrations, with opposition leaders demanding accountability and greater transparency from the administration.

Kejriwal visited Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar, where the activist has been observing an indefinite hunger strike over issues linked to the NEET examination controversy and broader concerns about India's education system. During his visit, the former Delhi Chief Minister praised Wangchuk's commitment to students and called for immediate action from the Centre.

Addressing supporters at the protest site, Kejriwal said the country needs an education system that restores public confidence and protects students' interests. He urged the Union government to remove Dharmendra Pradhan from the Education Ministry and appoint Sonam Wangchuk in his place, arguing that the noted education reformer has consistently worked for meaningful change in the sector.

The AAP leader said repeated examination controversies have shaken the confidence of students and parents across the country. According to him, the government must engage in dialogue with those raising concerns instead of ignoring their demands.

Wangchuk has been on an indefinite fast since late June in support of students protesting alleged examination irregularities. The movement has attracted growing public attention, with several political leaders, activists and members of the film industry extending support over the past few days.

The Delhi High Court has also taken note of Wangchuk's deteriorating health during the prolonged fast. The court directed authorities to monitor his medical condition regularly and intervene if doctors consider it necessary, while allowing the protest to continue within legal and medical safeguards.

Political reactions to Kejriwal's remarks have intensified the debate over the ongoing protest. While the AAP has reiterated its demand for accountability in the education system, the Centre has not officially responded to Kejriwal's proposal regarding the Education Ministry.

The hunger strike has become one of the most closely watched public protests in recent weeks, drawing support from students, education activists and several public personalities. The protesters continue to demand greater transparency in competitive examinations and systemic reforms aimed at preventing paper leaks and restoring trust in recruitment and admission processes.

With Wangchuk's health remaining a matter of concern and political support continuing to grow, attention is now focused on whether the government initiates talks with the protesters or responds to the demands being raised at Jantar Mantar.

In his letter, the AAP national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister argued that E20 petrol has caused problems for vehicles manufactured before 2023 that weren't originally designed to run on the blend, citing reduced mileage, faster engine wear and added financial strain on owners of older cars and two-wheelers. His central demand is straightforward: that petrol stations offer consumers a genuine choice between pure petrol and E20-blended fuel, rather than E20 being the only option available at the pump. He's also asked for E20 to be priced lower than regular petrol, arguing that its lower calorific value already means reduced mileage for users, and that the pricing should reflect that shortfall.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the letter becoming public, Kejriwal pushed back against how the government has characterised critics of the E20 rollout, saying people raising concerns about the fuel are simply citizens voicing genuine grievances rather than acting against the country's interest, and that they deserve to be heard rather than dismissed. He said democratic government requires listening to public concerns and acting on them, not brushing them aside.

Kejriwal said the party has launched an online petition asking citizens to share their direct experiences with E20 petrol, particularly around mileage, and that he intends to present the collected responses to the Prime Minister once a meeting is granted. He has also asked AAP workers and volunteers to visit petrol pumps and service stations directly, talk to consumers about their experiences, and document those conversations on social media.

E20 petrol — a blend containing 20 percent ethanol — has been rolled out nationally as part of the government's ethanol-blending programme, aimed at cutting fuel import costs and vehicular emissions. The programme has drawn periodic criticism from vehicle owners and some opposition leaders over compatibility concerns with older engines, though the Centre has maintained that BS-VI-compliant vehicles from recent years are built to handle the blend without issues.

As of Tuesday, neither the Prime Minister's Office nor the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas had responded publicly to Kejriwal's letter or confirmed whether the requested meeting would take place.

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.