The bungalow at 6-Flag Staff Road, which became a major political issue during the Delhi Assembly elections, may soon be repurposed. The Delhi BJP government is considering converting the bungalow, famously referred to as 'Sheeshmahal', into a state guest house. A cabinet note is currently being prepared for this proposal.

Why the Government is Making This Move?

According to sources, the Delhi government does not have its own official guest house. In light of this, 6-Flag Staff Road is being considered as a potential site. The PWD Secretary has been assigned the task of drafting the proposal. Notably, Delhi’s new Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, has already refused to reside in this bungalow.

History of the 6-Flag Staff Road Bungalow

• The Civil Lines area, where the bungalow is located, also houses the Raj Bhavan, Delhi Assembly, and Secretariat.
• The bungalow was built in 1942 and originally had five bedrooms along with an office.
• In the 1990s, the government designated 33-Sham Nath Marg as a state guest house, but the plan never materialized.

Kejriwal and the ‘Sheeshmahal’ Controversy

Former CM Arvind Kejriwal lived in this bungalow, which underwent extensive renovations during his tenure. The BJP had accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of spending crores of rupees on its renovation, calling it a misuse of public funds.

• The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report revealed that ₹33 crore was spent on the renovation.
• The BJP highlighted high-end expenses, including the cost of bathroom taps, curtains, and carpets, alleging corruption.