New Delhi – The Union Home Ministry has taken a significant step by directing a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the allegations surrounding the renovation of the official residence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The investigative agency promptly initiated a preliminary inquiry into the alleged “irregularities and misconduct” attributed to unidentified public servants within the Delhi government, according to officials who shared details on Wednesday.
The CBI has issued a directive to the Public Works Department (PWD) under the Delhi government, requesting all pertinent documents related to these alleged irregularities to be submitted by October 3. This preliminary inquiry serves as the initial phase to determine if there is substantial evidence to proceed with a full-fledged First Information Report (FIR).
This comprehensive inquiry will delve into all facets of the allegations, which first surfaced following an internal investigation led by the Chief Secretary of Delhi.
The decision to launch the CBI inquiry was prompted by a five-page letter penned by Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, VK Saxena, to the Director of CBI back in May.
Furthermore, in a parallel development, the Home Ministry has ordered a special audit to be conducted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) into this matter.
Reacting to this development, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) categorically denied any wrongdoing and, instead, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of leveraging its influence to undermine the AAP’s efforts in serving the public. The AAP contended that this move was part of the BJP’s broader strategy to corner Arvind Kejriwal by deploying various investigative agencies.
The controversy erupted earlier this year when the BJP alleged that Arvind Kejriwal had allocated approximately Rs 45 crore for the “beautification” of his official residence in Delhi’s Civil Lines. Subsequently, L-G Saxena directed the Chief Secretary to compile a comprehensive report on the matter, including securing and preserving all records linked to the alleged irregularities.
According to the Chief Secretary’s report, prima facie irregularities were identified during the renovation, highlighting deviations and violations attributed to the Public Works Department.
Based on this report, Saxena, in May, formally requested the CBI to initiate a probe into the matter.
The allegations suggest that funds were allocated as follows: Rs 11.30 crore for interior decoration, Rs 6.02 crore for stone and marble flooring, Rs one crore for interior consultancy, Rs 2.58 crore for electrical fittings and appliances, Rs 2.85 crore for the fire-fighting system, Rs 1.41 crore for wardrobe and accessories fitting, and Rs 1.1 crore for kitchen appliances. Additionally, a separate sum of Rs 8.11 crore from the sanctioned amount of Rs 9.99 crore was reportedly spent on the Chief Minister’s camp office.
This inquiry has now become a focal point in the ongoing political landscape, with the CBI tasked with unearthing the truth behind these allegations.
