The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has launched a comprehensive investigation into alleged irregularities in the renovation of the former official residence of ex-Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The probe was initiated following serious allegations that government construction norms were flouted, leading to the transformation of the Chief Minister’s official residence into an opulent mansion spanning approximately 40,000 square yards (8 acres). The CVC has tasked the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) with conducting an in-depth inquiry into the matter, acting on a complaint filed by BJP leader Vijender Gupta on October 14, 2024.
The complaint, which has sparked significant political controversy, alleges that multiple government-owned properties, including Plot Nos. 45 and 47 on Rajpur Road—earmarked for senior bureaucrats and judicial officers as Type-V flats—along with two heritage bungalows on Flag Staff Road, were unlawfully demolished and merged into a single estate to create a palatial residence for Kejriwal. Gupta has accused the former Chief Minister of bypassing necessary layout plan approvals, violating permissible ground coverage limits, and exceeding the legally defined Floor Area Ratio (FAR). Furthermore, the complaint questions the exorbitant expenditure on renovations, suggesting a potential misuse of taxpayer money to finance luxury additions.
Following the submission of the complaint, the CVC took swift action, registering the case for examination on October 16, 2024. Subsequently, on November 5, 2024, the commission formally acknowledged receipt of the allegations and directed the CPWD’s Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) to undertake a preliminary inquiry into the matter. The CVO was officially notified on November 14, 2024, and after conducting an initial review, submitted a factual report to the CVC on December 24, 2024.
After evaluating the preliminary findings, the CVC, on February 13, 2025, ordered a full-scale investigation into the expenditures incurred during the renovation of the Chief Minister’s residence. The probe will focus on determining whether regulatory guidelines were deliberately sidestepped, whether there was a conscious effort to misuse public funds, and whether officials involved in the project failed to maintain accountability in executing the construction work.
The controversy surrounding Kejriwal’s residence has ignited fierce political debates, with opposition parties accusing the former Chief Minister and his government of financial mismanagement and unethical conduct. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), on the other hand, has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, asserting that the renovations were carried out in accordance with official protocols and necessary approvals. However, with the CVC’s formal intervention, the matter has gained legal significance, and the findings of the investigation could have far-reaching consequences for Kejriwal and his party.
Legal experts suggest that if violations of building regulations and financial impropriety are established, stringent actions could follow, including legal proceedings against those responsible. The case has also brought into focus broader issues related to the allocation of public resources and transparency in the execution of government infrastructure projects. As the investigation progresses, it is expected to reveal crucial details about the decision-making process behind the controversial renovation and whether there was any criminal intent involved.
The outcome of this probe could play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Delhi, potentially influencing voter sentiment ahead of upcoming elections. With the CVC’s investigation now in motion, all eyes are on the CPWD’s findings and the possible repercussions for Arvind Kejriwal and his administration.
