The Delhi government has constituted a multi-member inspection panel to thoroughly scrutinise the renovation work carried out at the bungalow formerly occupied by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, reigniting controversy over allegations of excessive spending from public funds during the AAP regime.
The panel, led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Ajay Mahawar, will examine the nature and scale of work undertaken at the residence while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was in power. Sources close to the matter indicate that the inspection will cover both the quality of construction and the financial outlay drawn from the state exchequer for the project.
The Sheesh Mahal row traces back to questions raised about lavish interior work, mirrored decorations, and expensive fixtures installed at the bungalow, which served as both the official residence and office of the Delhi Chief Minister. Critics had alleged that crores of rupees were spent on amenities that went well beyond standard requirements for a government bungalow of that category.
MLA Mahawar confirmed that his team would conduct a detailed visit to the property to verify records, assess the actual work done, and compare expenditures against sanctioned norms. He stated that transparency in public spending was paramount and that the exercise was aimed at establishing factual clarity on how much taxpayer money was utilised for the renovations.
The AAP has defended the expenditure, stating that the bungalow upgrades fell within permissible limits and were part of routine infrastructure improvements. Party spokespersons have accused the BJP of political vindictiveness, arguing that the probe is an attempt to tarnish Kejriwal's reputation ahead of upcoming electoral engagements.
Legal and administrative experts note that such inspection panels are not uncommon in Delhi politics, where changes in government often lead to reviews of projects initiated by previous administrations. The findings of the Mahawar panel could influence ongoing political debates around accountability and transparency in governance.
The inspection is expected to take place in the coming weeks, with preliminary reports to be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor's office and relevant administrative authorities.
