by Sheesh Mahal: In the wake of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) decisive victory in the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, Chief Minister-designate Rekha Gupta has announced plans to transform the controversial ‘Sheesh Mahal’—the opulent residence renovated during Arvind Kejriwal’s tenure—into a public museum. This move aims to highlight alleged misappropriations of public funds by the previous administration.
The ‘Sheesh Mahal,’ located at 6, Flagstaff Road in Civil Lines, became a focal point of political controversy due to extensive and lavish renovations purportedly carried out under Kejriwal’s leadership. Reports suggest that multiple government properties were amalgamated to expand the residence, with significant sums spent on luxury interiors, including high-end fixtures and amenities. These expenditures drew sharp criticism from the BJP, which accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of prioritizing personal luxury over public welfare.
Rekha Gupta, set to be sworn in as Delhi’s Chief Minister, has firmly stated her intention not to reside in the ‘Sheesh Mahal.’ Instead, she proposes converting it into a museum to allow citizens to witness firsthand the alleged extravagance funded by taxpayer money. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the incoming BJP government to promote transparency and accountability in governance.
The transformation of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ into a museum is expected to serve as a tangible reminder of the previous administration’s purported fiscal mismanagement, while also reinforcing the new government’s dedication to ethical governance and responsible use of public resources.
As the BJP prepares to assume office after a 27-year hiatus, Rekha Gupta’s leadership marks a significant milestone, with a focus on addressing key issues such as pollution, infrastructure development, and women’s safety in the capital. The conversion of the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ stands as a symbolic gesture reflecting the party’s resolve to rectify past misdeeds and foster a culture of integrity in public service.
