Delhi to Convert Former CM Kejriwal's Bungalow into State Guest House and Cultural Centre

The Delhi government has decided to develop the former official residence of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal at 6 Flagstaff Road in Civil Lines into a state guest house and cultural centre, according to officials familiar with the matter.

The property, which has been unoccupied since Kejriwal moved out in October 2024, was a major point of contention during the 2025 Assembly election campaign. The BJP had labelled it a 'Sheesh Mahal' (palace of mirrors) and alleged corruption in its renovation.

Sources in the Delhi government said the proposal is in its final stages and was discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The Public Works Department has been asked to submit a detailed report on the present condition of the property.

Unlike other states, Delhi currently does not have a designated state guest house to host national and international delegations. The bungalow, along with an adjacent building that was being constructed by the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, will be developed into a larger complex.

The proposed facility will include rooms for guests, a conference hall, meeting spaces, and an auditorium for cultural programmes, exhibitions, and official ceremonies.

The renovation of the property had been a subject of controversy. The built-up area increased from 1,397 square metres to 1,905 square metres, and the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reported that the renovation cost escalated to Rs 33.66 crore, over 340% higher than initial estimates. Of this, Rs 18.88 crore was spent on 'superior specifications, artistic, antique and ornamental' items.

A senior official said the proposal could not be taken up in the last cabinet meeting as the government was focused on rolling out the Electric Vehicle policy. It is expected to be approved shortly.