The residence of Arvind Kejriwal, founder of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and former Delhi Chief Minister, has become one of the most controversial topics in Indian politics. From the infamous “Sheesh Mahal” scandal to his current government accommodation, Kejriwal’s living arrangements have sparked intense political debates and public scrutiny.
The Arvind Kejriwal house saga represents more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a story of political promises, alleged extravagance, and the complex relationship between public service and personal lifestyle. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every detail of Kejriwal’s residences, from the controversial renovations to his current address in Delhi’s prestigious Lodhi Estate.
Last Updated: November 26, 2025
🏛️ Overview: The Two Faces of Arvind Kejriwal’s Residences
Arvind Kejriwal’s housing story can be divided into two distinct chapters. The first involves the official Chief Minister’s residence at 6 Flagstaff Road in Civil Lines, which became nationally infamous as the “Sheesh Mahal” due to its alleged ₹45 crore renovation costs. The second chapter began in October 2025 when he was allotted a Type-VII government bungalow at 95 Lodhi Estate after a year-long legal battle following his resignation as Delhi CM.
Quick Stats: Arvind Kejriwal’s Residences at a Glance
| Property Detail | 6 Flagstaff Road (Sheesh Mahal) | 95 Lodhi Estate (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Civil Lines, North Delhi | Lodhi Estate, New Delhi |
| Property Type | Official CM Residence | Type-VII Government Bungalow |
| Total Area | 40,000 sq yards (8 acres) | ~5,000 sq feet |
| Building Size | 21,000 sq feet | ~5,000 sq feet |
| Bedrooms | Multiple (exact number undisclosed) | 4 |
| Occupancy Period | 2015 – November 2024 | October 2025 – Present |
| Renovation Cost | ₹33.66 – ₹45 crore | Under renovation (cost TBA) |
| Initial Budget | ₹7.9 crore | Not disclosed |
| Year Built | 1942 (Colonial era) | Government quarters |
| Special Features | Smart TVs, spa, gym, luxury appliances | Hall, dining, office, 2 lawns |
| Servant Quarters | 3 | 3 |
| Notable Items | ₹77 lakh TVs, ₹4 lakh massage chair | Standard government fittings |
| Current Status | Converting to state guest house | Active residence |
| Controversy Level | Extremely High (₹45 crore scandal) | None yet |
| Neighbors | Government officials | Shashi Tharoor, Priyanka Gandhi |
Born on August 16, 1968, in Siwani, Haryana, Kejriwal rose to prominence as an anti-corruption activist before founding AAP in 2012. His political brand has always centered on being the “common man” (Aam Aadmi), promising simplicity and transparency. This makes the controversy surrounding his official residence particularly significant, as critics argue it contradicts his political identity.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information from government reports, media coverage, and official statements. Property details, costs, and features have been verified through multiple sources. Layouts and specific features may differ from descriptions, as complete architectural plans have not been made publicly available. The article presents multiple perspectives on the controversy to provide readers with comprehensive information for forming their own opinions.
📍 The Infamous Sheesh Mahal: Arvind Kejriwal House Address
Location & Property Details
The primary residence that sparked nationwide controversy was located at 6 Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines, North Delhi—one of the most prestigious areas in the capital. This sprawling government property, officially known as Flagstaff House, has been the traditional residence of Delhi’s Chief Ministers since the formation of the Delhi Legislative Assembly in 1952.
The property is massive by any standard. According to official reports and investigations, the bungalow complex spans an incredible 40,000 square yards (approximately 8 acres) of prime Delhi real estate. The main residential structure itself covers 21,000 square feet, featuring multiple floors, extensive lawns, and numerous amenities.
Built in 1942, the colonial-era bungalow had fallen into disrepair over the decades. When Kejriwal was allocated this residence in 2015 after becoming Delhi CM, the building reportedly had leaking roofs, with some sections at risk of collapse. This deteriorating condition became the official justification for the extensive renovations that would later spark intense political controversy.
💰 Arvind Kejriwal House Worth: The ₹45 Crore Controversy
Renovation Costs That Shook Delhi Politics
The question of how much was actually spent on renovating the Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal house became one of the biggest political flashpoints in recent years. Multiple investigations and audits have revealed staggering figures:
Official Audit Findings:
- Initial renovation estimate: ₹7.9 crore
- Actual expenditure according to CAG draft: ₹33.66 crore
- Other reports citing total costs: ₹44.78 crore to ₹45 crore
- Time Now Navbharat’s “Operation Sheesh Mahal” investigation: ₹44.78 crore
The massive cost overrun—from an initial budget of under ₹8 crore ballooning to over ₹45 crore—became ammunition for opposition parties, particularly the BJP, to attack Kejriwal’s credibility. The renovations began in 2020, ironically during the COVID-19 pandemic when many public projects were stalled and citizens faced economic hardships.
What Made It So Expensive?
The Public Works Department (PWD) released a detailed inventory of items installed in the residence that helps explain the astronomical costs. The list reads like a luxury hotel specification sheet rather than a government residence:
Technology & Entertainment:
- 16 Ultra Slim Smart 4K Voice-Controlled TVs: ₹64 lakh
- One Smart LED TV: ₹19.5 lakh
- Total TV expenditure cited by some reports: ₹77 lakh (with one TV costing ₹29 lakh)
- Bose loudspeaker system: ₹4.5 lakh
Interior Furnishings:
- Motorized window curtains: ₹4-6 crore (various reports cite between ₹51 lakh to ₹96 lakh for curtains alone)
- Luxury recliner sofas: ₹10 lakh
- Silk carpets: ₹50 lakh
- OSADA full-body massage chair: ₹4 lakh
Kitchen & Appliances:
- Smart refrigerators with built-in TVs and AI vision screens: ₹9 lakh
- 73-litre steam oven: ₹9 lakh (another report mentions ₹6.5 lakh for two steam ovens)
- 50-litre microwave oven: ₹6 lakh
- BOSCH Series 8 built-in coffee machine: ₹2.5 lakh
Architectural Features:
- Wooden and glass doors with automatic sliding sensors: ₹70 lakh
- 24 decorative pillars: ₹36 lakh
- 20 grand aged brass entrance sconce outdoor lights: ₹10 lakh
- Designer marbles and granite: ₹1.9 crore (some sources cite ₹6 crore)
- Brass railings: ₹42 lakh
Wellness Facilities:
- Gym and spa equipment: ₹35 lakh
- Spa installation: ₹20 lakh
- Hot water generator: ₹18 lakh
- Luxury toilet seats (TOTO smart toilet seats with automatic open-close, heated seats, wireless remote, deodorizer): ₹12 lakh (some reports mention ₹1.25 crore for imported toilet seats)
Infrastructure:
- Superior water supply and sanitary installations: ₹15 crore
- Civil work and lighting: ₹1.5 crore
The residence also featured motion-sensing automatic doors in all rooms, state-of-the-art security systems, and modern climate control throughout the property.
🏗️ Architecture & Design: From Colonial Heritage to Modern Luxury
The Original Structure
The Flagstaff House represents a blend of colonial and post-colonial Indian architecture. Built during the British era in 1942, it originally embodied the understated elegance typical of government buildings from that period. The property’s location in Civil Lines—historically an area where British officials resided—added to its architectural and historical significance.
The building’s layout traditionally included spacious rooms with high ceilings, large windows for natural ventilation, extensive verandas, and a formal garden layout. These features reflected the architectural principles of colonial India, designed to cope with Delhi’s extreme climate while maintaining administrative dignity.
The 2020 Renovation
The renovation that began in 2020 transformed the aging colonial structure into what critics dubbed a “7-star resort.” According to the PWD specifications and media reports, the renovation included:
Structural Changes:
- Complete restoration of the main building structure
- Repair and reinforcement of leaking roofs and damaged walls
- Installation of modern insulation and climate control systems
- Integration of smart home technology throughout
Interior Design:
- Contemporary minimalist aesthetics mixed with luxury finishes
- Premium marble and granite flooring throughout
- Designer lighting fixtures creating ambient environments in each room
- Custom-built furniture and fittings
- Automated window treatments with remote control
Outdoor Spaces:
- Professionally landscaped lawns spanning 399 square feet of the property
- Decorative lighting for the exterior and gardens
- Upgraded parking facilities with covered areas
Property Expansion Controversy
One of the most serious allegations involves potential violations of building norms. The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) raised concerns in February 2025 about whether properties were illegally merged to expand the bungalow from its original footprint to the massive 40,000 square yards. This led to a formal investigation ordered by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) to determine if government regulations were bypassed to facilitate the expansion.
🏠 Life Inside the Residence: Layout & Features
While exact floor plans have not been publicly released, various reports and leaked videos provide insights into the residence’s layout and amenities:
Living Spaces
The main residential area featured multiple living rooms designed for both formal receptions and private family time. These spaces were equipped with the smart TVs, designer furniture, and automated curtains that became focal points of the controversy. The living areas reflected contemporary interior design with clean lines, neutral color palettes accented with luxury materials, and integrated entertainment systems.
Private Quarters
The residence included multiple bedrooms for Kejriwal’s family, including accommodations for his wife Sunita, their children, and his parents. Each bedroom appeared to have en-suite facilities with the controversial luxury bathroom fittings, individual climate control, and smart home integration.
Kitchen & Dining
The kitchen was transformed into a chef-grade facility with high-end European appliances. The ₹2.5 lakh coffee machine, ₹9 lakh refrigerators with built-in screens, and commercial-grade steam ovens suggested a focus on culinary capabilities far beyond typical home cooking. A formal dining area accommodated both family meals and official entertaining.
Wellness Wing
Perhaps the most criticized aspect was the dedicated wellness area featuring a gym with professional equipment, a spa facility with massage chairs, and what some reports described as jacuzzi installations—amenities that seemed far removed from the “aam aadmi” lifestyle Kejriwal championed.
Work Spaces
As an official Chief Minister’s residence, the property included dedicated office areas for administrative work, meetings with officials, and party activities. These spaces were equipped with communication technology, conference facilities, and secure areas for handling sensitive government matters.
Service Areas
The property included three servant quarters to house staff, separate utility areas, and extensive storage spaces. The infrastructure investments, particularly the ₹15 crore water supply and sanitary installations, ensured self-sufficient operation of the massive complex.
📰 The “Sheesh Mahal” Saga: Political Firestorm
Origin of the Controversy
The term “Sheesh Mahal” (Palace of Mirrors) was coined by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to characterize what they alleged was Kejriwal’s hypocrisy. In 2013, when AAP first came to power, Kejriwal had publicly stated that he and his ministers would not occupy government bungalows, instead opting for smaller government flats. This promise resonated with voters tired of political extravagance.
The controversy first erupted in May 2023 when details of the renovation expenditure were leaked to the media. Times Now Navbharat’s investigative report, titled “Operation Sheesh Mahal,” provided detailed breakdowns of costs that shocked the public. Videos surfaced showing motion-sensing automatic doors, luxury furnishings, and opulent interiors that seemed to contradict everything AAP stood for.
Political Reactions
BJP’s Campaign: The BJP made the Sheesh Mahal a central issue in the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva released videos showing the interiors, demanding transparency and accountability. BJP spokesperson Amit Malviya highlighted specific items like the missing TOTO smart toilet seats, suggesting possible corruption or misappropriation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah escalated the attacks, stating that Kejriwal “could not be satisfied by one, two, three or four bungalows” and instead built a palace costing Delhi’s taxpayers ₹45 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took veiled swipes during election rallies, saying he could have built a Sheesh Mahal for himself but chose instead to build homes for the poor.
AAP’s Defense: Arvind Kejriwal and AAP defended the expenditure on several grounds:
- The building was in dilapidated condition with structural damage
- It’s the official CM residence, not personal property
- Renovations were necessary for safety and functionality
- Many quoted figures were exaggerated or incorrect
- The building would serve future Chief Ministers
Kejriwal specifically countered PM Modi’s criticism by pointing to the Prime Minister’s own expenditures, including what he characterized as a “₹2,700 crore house,” an “₹8,400 crore plane,” and a “₹10 lakh suit.”
Investigations & Legal Actions
Multiple investigations were launched:
Vigilance Department Inquiry (2022): Initiated by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena to examine “irregularities and cost escalation” in the PWD renovation work.
CBI Investigation (2023): The Central Bureau of Investigation began probing the matter based on a complaint by then-Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta, who alleged shocking misuse of public funds.
Central Vigilance Commission Probe (2025): In February 2025, the CVC directed CPWD to conduct a detailed investigation into potential violations of building regulations, alleged property mergers, and extravagant spending. This came after BJP MLA Vijender Gupta filed formal complaints detailing the astronomical expenses.
CAG Audit: A leaked draft of the Comptroller and Auditor General’s audit revealed the ₹33.66 crore expenditure against the initial ₹7.9 crore estimate, providing official documentation of the cost overruns.
Electoral Impact
The Sheesh Mahal controversy is widely credited as one of several factors that contributed to AAP’s defeat in the Delhi Assembly elections held in February 2025, ending the party’s decade-long rule in Delhi. Exit polls and post-election analyses suggested that the issue damaged Kejriwal’s carefully cultivated image as a simple, common man fighting for ordinary citizens.
🏢 Arvind Kejriwal’s New Address: 95 Lodhi Estate
The Transition
After resigning as Delhi Chief Minister on September 17, 2024 (following his release from jail in a liquor policy case), Kejriwal faced an unexpected problem: no place to live. Delhi, unlike many Indian states, does not provide official accommodation to former Chief Ministers.
Kejriwal initially vacated 6 Flagstaff Road on November 4, 2024, and temporarily moved to 5 Ferozeshah Road, a government bungalow allotted to AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal from Punjab. This temporary arrangement lasted nearly a year as Kejriwal fought for permanent accommodation.
Legal Battle for Government Housing
As national convener of a recognized political party, Kejriwal argued he was entitled to government accommodation under existing guidelines. AAP filed a petition in the Delhi High Court seeking suitable housing. The party initially requested the bungalow at 35 Lodhi Estate, formerly occupied by BSP chief Mayawati, but that property had already been allotted to Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary.
The case dragged through multiple hearings in April, June, and August 2025 with no resolution. Finally, in September 2025, the Delhi High Court reprimanded the central government, calling the year-long delay in providing housing to an elected national party head “administrative insensitivity.” The court imposed a strict 10-day deadline for allocation.
The New Residence: 95 Lodhi Estate
Following the court’s directive, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs allotted Kejriwal bungalow number 95, Lodhi Estate in October 2025. This Type-VII government accommodation represents one of the more spacious categories of official housing in Delhi.
Property Specifications:
- Total area: Approximately 5,000 square feet
- Bedrooms: Four
- Layout: Hall, waiting room, dining room, and dedicated office space
- Outdoor spaces: Two side lawns
- Service facilities: Three servant quarters
- Parking: Garage for multiple vehicles
Previous Occupant: The bungalow was formerly occupied by Iqbal Singh Lalpura, a former IPS officer and BJP leader, adding an ironic twist to the allocation.
Notable Neighbors: Kejriwal’s new address places him in prestigious political company:
- 97 Lodhi Estate: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor (immediate neighbor)
- 94 and 96 Lodhi Estate: Senior Army officials
- 82 Lodhi Estate: RJD leader Misa Bharti
- 81 Lodhi Estate: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi
Kejriwal inspected the property on Monday, October 6, 2025, and accepted the allocation. However, he didn’t move in immediately, as the bungalow required renovations. Party sources indicated he would shift around Diwali 2025, once the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) completed the necessary work.
Future of the Flagstaff Road Property
The Delhi government announced plans to convert Kejriwal’s former residence at 6 Flagstaff Road into a state guest house with a cafeteria. This repurposing aims to make productive use of the controversial property while removing it from future political residence controversies.
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🔍 Arvind Kejriwal News: Recent Developments
The Chandigarh “Sheesh Mahal 2.0” Allegation
In a fresh controversy that emerged in late 2024, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal accused Kejriwal of having the Punjab government allot him a luxurious property in Chandigarh’s Sector 2. Maliwal characterized it as “Sheesh Mahal 2.0″—a “seven-star palace” on two acres of land under the Punjab CM’s quota, extensively renovated in the previous month.
Maliwal questioned the legitimacy of this allocation, stating, “I don’t understand in what capacity he was given this palace. He isn’t even an MLA in Delhi.” The BJP revived the Sheesh Mahal issue around this allegation, sharing photos of the purported Chandigarh property.
AAP responded by clarifying that the property serves as a camp office for the Chief Minister, not a personal residence for Kejriwal. The party accused critics of deliberately misrepresenting official government facilities for political gain.
Ongoing Investigations
As of November 2025, multiple investigations into the Flagstaff Road renovation remain active:
- CVC-directed CPWD probe into building regulation violations and property mergers
- CBI investigation into alleged financial irregularities
- Ongoing political scrutiny as the BJP-led Delhi government reviews the previous administration’s expenditures
Current Political Status
Kejriwal currently serves as AAP’s national convener but is not holding any government position after AAP’s electoral defeat. He was arrested in March 2024 in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case and spent several months in Tihar Jail before being granted bail by the Supreme Court in September 2024. He resigned as CM shortly after his release, stating he would only return to the position if voters gave him a “certificate of honesty” in the next elections—a statement that took on additional significance given the Sheesh Mahal controversy.
💡Key Takeaways: Understanding the Arvind Kejriwal House Controversy
The story of Arvind Kejriwal house reveals several important dimensions of contemporary Indian politics:
The Image vs. Reality Debate: Kejriwal built his political brand on rejecting the trappings of power. The Sheesh Mahal controversy struck at the heart of this narrative, raising questions about whether his “aam aadmi” persona was genuine or calculated political positioning.
Official Necessity vs. Personal Extravagance: The fundamental question remains: Were the renovations necessary government expenditure for an important official residence, or were they personal indulgences funded by taxpayers? Kejriwal argues the former; critics insist on the latter.
Transparency & Accountability: The controversy highlights ongoing debates about how political leaders should live, what level of transparency citizens deserve about public expenditure, and how to balance security and functional needs with fiscal responsibility.
Political Weaponization: The Sheesh Mahal became a political weapon that opponents wielded effectively, demonstrating how personal lifestyle issues can overshadow policy debates in electoral politics.
📝 Conclusion
The Arvind Kejriwal house saga—from the ₹45 crore Sheesh Mahal to his current Lodhi Estate bungalow—remains one of Indian politics’ most debated controversies. Whether viewed as necessary government infrastructure or personal extravagance, it significantly damaged his “common man” image and contributed to AAP’s 2025 electoral defeat. As multiple investigations continue, the story serves as a powerful reminder that in politics, perception often matters as much as reality. The contrast between Kejriwal’s promises of simplicity and the opulence of Sheesh Mahal will likely define his political legacy for years to come.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Where is Arvind Kejriwal’s house located?
Currently at 95 Lodhi Estate, New Delhi. Previously lived at 6 Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines (the infamous Sheesh Mahal).
Q2: How much did the Sheesh Mahal renovation cost?
Between ₹33.66 crore to ₹45 crore, far exceeding the initial ₹7.9 crore budget.
Q3: What is Arvind Kejriwal house address?
His current official address is 95 Lodhi Estate, New Delhi – a Type-VII government bungalow allotted in October 2025.
Q4: Can the public visit Arvind Kejriwal’s residence?
No, both properties are secured government accommodations with restricted access. The Flagstaff Road property is being converted into a state guest house.
Q5: Why is it called “Sheesh Mahal”?
The BJP coined this term (meaning “Palace of Mirrors”) to criticize the alleged ₹45 crore luxury renovation, contrasting it with Kejriwal’s “common man” image.
Q6: Who designed the Sheesh Mahal interiors?
The Public Works Department (PWD) of Delhi government executed the work. Specific interior designers haven’t been publicly disclosed.
