Delhi’s new Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, has made it clear that she will not reside in the controversial ‘Sheesh Mahal’ bungalow at 6, Flagstaff Road in Civil Lines. This decision comes after the BJP’s long-standing criticism of the bungalow due to alleged irregularities and corruption in its reconstruction and inventory of costly goods. As a result, the Public Works Department (PWD) is actively exploring alternative options for her official residence.
What is ‘Sheesh Mahal’
The ‘Sheesh Mahal’ bungalow became well known during the tenure of former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who lived there from 2015 until his resignation in September 2024. The BJP consistently criticized the bungalow, leading to Rekha Gupta’s decision to avoid it. Instead, she took a jibe by saying she plans to convert the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ into a museum, as per India Tv.
Exploring new options
As per a PTI report, with the decision to forgo 6, Flagstaff Road, the PWD has been actively seeking suitable alternatives for Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s official residence. Several bungalows have been shortlisted, considering factors such as proximity to key government offices and security requirements. In addition to finding a residence for Rekha Gupta, the PWD must arrange accommodations for six other ministers, the Assembly Speaker, and the Deputy Speaker. This involves allocating eight more bungalows, as per the government’s housing rules
Shortlisted properties:
Bungalows on Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (DDU) Marg: Two properties located along DDU Marg in central Delhi have been identified. This area also houses the Delhi BJP office and the BJP national headquarters, making it a strategic choice. These bungalows have undergone necessary repairs and are compliant with security measures under the Z-category cover provided to the Chief Minister.
Bungalow on Rajpur Road, Civil Lines: The other possible residence is located on Rajpur Road in the Civil Lines locality of north Delhi. This area presents the right balance of proximity to work locations and peaceful atmosphere of Civil Lines. Similar to the properties on DDU Marg, this bungalow too has been made to accommodate the security and functional demands of the Chief Minister’s office.
According to Hindustan Times, as of now, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta continues to reside in her private residence in Shalimar Bagh, her home constituency. The PWD has submitted the shortlisted options, and the final decision will be taken by the Chief Minister. She might even go and see these bungalows personally in order to evaluate their suitability and make a decision. After taking a decision, the chosen property will be allotted officially through the General Administration Department (GAD).
