The Public Works Department (PWD) has recently escalated its communication regarding the keys to the Chief Minister's residence located at 6, Flagstaff Road in Delhi, which were not returned by former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Following his decision to vacate the official residence on October 4, Kejriwal has moved to a bungalow in the Lutyen's area of Delhi.Â
In a formal letter addressed to Pravesh Ranjan Jha, the Special Secretary to the Chief Minister's Office, the PWD expressed its concerns over the missing keys, stating that they were not returned to the department as per protocol. The letter specifically highlighted that although the keys were handed over initially, they were taken back after some time and have yet to be officially returned. The PWD clarified that despite officials visiting the residence on Sunday to retrieve the keys, the handover did not take place.
The PWD emphasized the necessity of inspecting the residence before making any fresh allotments, noting that ongoing vigilance cases related to construction at the bungalow require the department to conduct a thorough inspection and take a detailed inventory of the items within the property. The letter requested prompt action to arrange for the keys to be handed over to Shri Karam Singh Yadav from the PWD, in order to finalize the transfer of the residence and enable a proper inspection.
Furthermore, the PWD underscored that the delay in transferring the keys is not only impeding routine procedures but also affecting the timely allotment of the residence to the current Chief Minister, Atishi. The department has stressed the urgency of the situation, indicating that a swift transfer is crucial for ensuring that Atishi can move into her new official residence without unnecessary delays.
Amidst these developments, the situation has become politically charged, with Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva taking the opportunity to criticize Kejriwal. He referred to the residence as the "Sheesh Mahal," labeling it a "symbol of Kejriwal's corruption," and remarked on the perceived drama surrounding Kejriwal's departure from the residence, asserting that, according to government rules, the residence has not been officially vacated.
The ongoing exchanges highlight the complexities surrounding the transition of official residences in Delhi's political landscape, where administrative protocols intersect with political rivalries and public perceptions. As the PWD awaits the return of the keys, the matter underscores the importance of compliance with administrative procedures, particularly in the context of governance and the efficient transition of leadership.
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