The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday held a protest near the residence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, accusing him of extravagance in the renovation of his official bungalow during his tenure. The controversy, dubbed ‘Sheesh Mahal,’ revolves around allegations that Kejriwal used taxpayer money for luxurious upgrades to the residence located at 6, Flagstaff Road.

The protest was spearheaded by Kailash Gahlot, a former AAP leader who recently joined the BJP. Gahlot cited the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ controversy as one of the reasons for his departure from AAP, accusing the party of abandoning its core principles. Addressing the gathering, Gahlot said, “We have come here to protest over the 'Sheesh Mahal' issue. When I wrote a letter to Arvind Kejriwal, I wrote clearly that a controversy has been created over Sheesh Mahal is truly unfortunate. This is an example of compromise with the core principles of AAP.”

Gahlot also expressed confidence in the BJP’s chances in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, saying, “I think this time BJP will form the government in Delhi. People are troubled because work was not done in Delhi – sewers are overflowing, drinking water is not being supplied, roads are damaged. I am confident that the people of Delhi will make BJP win this time.”

BJP leaders alleged that the renovation of the bungalow involved exorbitant expenses, including the use of imported marble from Vietnam and curtains priced at nearly ₹8 lakh each. The Public Works Department (PWD), which owns the property, was reportedly not involved in supplying these luxurious items.

The controversy gained traction when details surfaced claiming that over ₹45 crore had been spent on the renovation, betraying Kejriwal’s earlier promises of “simple living.” BJP leaders, including Delhi unit chief Virendra Sachdeva and Leader of Opposition Vijendra Gupta, joined the protest near Kejriwal’s current residence on Firoz Shah Road.

The BJP has repeatedly attacked Kejriwal over what they describe as misuse of public funds for personal comfort. Referring to the bungalow at 6, Flagstaff Road as ‘Sheesh Mahal,’ they allege that Kejriwal installed pre-fabricated wooden walls and other lavish items during the renovation. These expenses, according to the BJP, contradict his pledge of humility and simplicity in public life.

Kejriwal, who stepped down as Delhi Chief Minister on September 17, vacated the controversial bungalow in October. While the AAP has denied the allegations, the BJP continues to demand accountability, accusing the former CM of betraying the trust of Delhi residents by misusing their money.

Police detained several BJP leaders during the protest as tensions escalated outside Kejriwal’s residence. The controversy remains a focal point in the BJP’s criticism of AAP ahead of the elections, as they work to capitalise on public discontent over the alleged misuse of public funds.