Security tightened at Arvind Kejriwal’s residence ahead of BJP protest over 'extravagant' bungalow furnishings

NEW DELHI: Security was ramped up at the residence of AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi on Thursday, following a call by the BJP to protest over alleged extravagant furnishings at the official bungalow previously occupied by Kejriwal during his tenure as Delhi chief minister.

The BJP has questioned the source of funds for the luxury items found at the bungalow, raising the stakes for the ongoing political dispute.



The protest, scheduled for Thursday, follows remarks made by BJP leaders on Wednesday, alleging that Kejriwal’s residence at 6 Flagstaff Road was outfitted with expensive, luxurious items, which were not authorized by the Public Works Department (PWD).

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva and Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Vijender Gupta, have demanded an investigation into the alleged "extravagant" additions, which include costly furnishings such as premium wash basins, reclining sofas, high-value television sets, and luxurious toilet seats.

According to Sachdeva, the PWD had only authorized basic items for the bungalow following its renovation in 2022. However, after Kejriwal vacated the residence in 2024, an inventory prepared by the department revealed that the bungalow contained items far exceeding those originally approved, raising questions about the source of the additional expenses. The BJP has also highlighted the disparity between the official inventory and what was left behind when Kejriwal resigned from the position of chief minister, labeling the residence as a “sheeshmahal.”

In response, the AAP dismissed these claims, accusing the BJP of targeting Kejriwal with false allegations to undermine his integrity. The party defended its leader, stating that the “Kejriwal model” continues to thrive, as Delhi residents can see through what they described as politically motivated accusations. AAP further asserted that Kejriwal had set a precedent by vacating the official residence and adhering to constitutional norms after stepping down as chief minister, unlike many other politicians who cling to their privileges.

The BJP, however, maintained its stance, stating that the public should be made aware of the lavish items installed at the official bungalow during Kejriwal’s tenure. Gupta has gone further, requesting a high-level investigation into the matter, addressing concerns over the funding for the alleged lavish furnishings, which the BJP claims were not supplied by the PWD.

As tensions escalate, both parties are gearing up for an intense political showdown, with the BJP preparing to hold a protest outside Kejriwal’s current residence on Ferozshah Road. The AAP, meanwhile, continues to stand by its leader’s record, insisting that the accusations are baseless.


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