New Delhi: The “Sheesh Mahal” controversy that once dominated Delhi’s political landscape has returned to the headlines this time, with a new twist from Chandigarh. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has alleged that ex Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has secured a “7 star CM quota bungalow” in Chandigarh’s Sector 2, calling it “Sheesh Mahal 2.0.” The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), however, dismissed the claim as “fake propaganda,” demanding proof and accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation to divert attention from Delhi’s pollution crisis.
BJP Alleges Lavish Lifestyle, AAP Calls Claim ‘Fake’
Earlier this month, Delhi’s “Sheesh Mahal” row over alleged misuse of ₹45 crore in taxpayer money for Kejriwal’s Delhi residence resurfaced when BJP leaders shared a photo of a sprawling bungalow in Chandigarh. The BJP claimed the Punjab government, led by AAP, had allotted the luxurious property to Kejriwal.
According to the BJP, the bungalow spread over nearly two acres features lush gardens, grand interiors, and even a helipad. Delhi BJP leaders took to social media to allege that Kejriwal “pretending to be a common man” was now enjoying “royal perks even in defeat.”
“Sheesh Mahal 2.0 built for Punjab’s ‘Super Chief Minister’ Arvind Kejriwal,” read one post by the BJP’s Delhi unit. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla added, “AAP leaders who lost the Delhi election have been compensated with positions in Punjab. Instead of fulfilling promises made to women in Punjab, the government has provided a 100 car convoy and a 7 star mansion for Kejriwal.”
Swati Maliwal’s Post Adds to Controversy
Adding fuel to the political fire, AAP’s Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal whose relationship with the party leadership has been strained since her assault allegations against Kejriwal’s aide, Bibhav Kumar also shared the same image on X (formerly Twitter).
Maliwal alleged that the Punjab government was “serving one man,” claiming that Kejriwal had boarded a government helicopter from outside his residence to Ambala, and then a private jet to Gujarat for party work. “An entire state machinery serving one man’s royal perks, even in defeat,” Swati Maliwal wrote.
AAP’s Counterattack: ‘BJP Faking Everything’
Responding to the allegations, AAP’s Delhi unit called the BJP’s claims “completely baseless.” In a post on X, the party said, “Ever since the Prime Minister’s fake Yamuna story was exposed, the BJP has lost its cool. Now, in frustration, they are faking everything – fake Yamuna, fake rainfall data, fake pollution figures, and now fake 7 star claims.”
Anurag Dhanda, AAP’s national media officer, also responded sharply, pointing out that the Chandigarh administration is under BJP’s control. “When are you going to demolish it? Chandigarh has a BJP administration. Who approved the map, gave electricity and water connections, or allowed police clearance? The BJP should answer,” Dhanda said.
Political Rivalry Intensifies
BJP Delhi president Virendra Sachdeva accused Kejriwal and AAP of “looting Punjab after looting Delhi.” “After the Sheesh Mahal in Delhi, now Kejriwal has built another in Chandigarh. What is this Sheesh Mahal 2.0?” he asked, sharing the same photo on social media.
The renewed debate comes months after AAP suffered a major electoral defeat in Delhi. Once dominant with over 60 seats in both the 2015 and 2020 elections, the party managed just 22 seats in 2025, with Kejriwal himself losing his seat. Analysts believe the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy over alleged misuse of public funds played a key role in AAP’s loss.
Background: Delhi’s “Sheesh Mahal” and Government Action
Earlier this month, the Delhi government confirmed that Kejriwal’s former official residence located at 6, Flag Staff Road will be converted into a government guest house, complete with an in house cafeteria.
In October 2024, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) released a report detailing “luxurious renovations” and “high end appliances” installed at the residence. Following that, the central government ordered a probe and directed the CPWD to examine alleged building norm violations.
Meanwhile, the BJP led Delhi government has proposed turning the residence into a public museum. “We will include Sheesh Mahal in Delhi’s tourist circuit and sell tickets for visitors,” Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had said during the election campaign.
AAP Stands Firm Amid Renewed Criticism
Despite mounting criticism, AAP leaders maintain that the Chandigarh bungalow controversy is a politically motivated attempt to undermine the party’s credibility. The party insists no such “7 star” property has been allotted to Kejriwal.
The renewed “Sheesh Mahal” controversy underscores the ongoing political rivalry between AAP and BJP, with both sides using the issue to frame their narratives ahead of upcoming state polls.
