Centre Orders CBI probe into Kejriwal's residence renovation allegations

The Union Home Ministry has taken a significant step by ordering a CBI investigation into the allegations pertaining to the renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence. 

This move comes after officials revealed that a preliminary inquiry has been registered to probe the purported "irregularities and misconduct" by unidentified public servants of the Delhi government.

The CBI has promptly instructed the Public Works Department of the Delhi government to furnish all pertinent documents related to these alleged irregularities by October 3. 

This preliminary inquiry serves as the initial phase in determining if the claims warrant a full-fledged FIR.

The scope of the investigation encompasses a thorough examination of all facets of the allegations, which initially surfaced during an inquiry led by the Chief Secretary of Delhi.

This investigation was instigated following a detailed five-page letter penned by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to the Director of the CBI back in May. 

In response to this development, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staunchly refuted any wrongdoing and pointed fingers at the BJP, accusing them of employing their influence to undermine the AAP's efforts in serving the public.

The AAP further contended that the BJP's actions were aimed at cornering Arvind Kejriwal, and dismissed this CBI inquiry as another futile endeavor, citing over 50 prior investigations that yielded no substantial findings.

The controversy initially arose earlier this year when the BJP alleged that Arvind Kejriwal had spent approximately Rs 45 crore on the "beautification" of his official residence in Delhi's Civil Lines. 

This prompted L-G Saxena to instruct the Chief Secretary to compile a comprehensive report on the matter, securing all pertinent records related to the alleged irregularities.

According to the Chief Secretary's report, there were evident irregularities in the renovation, highlighting deviations and violations committed by the Public Works Department.

Based on this report, Saxena, in May, called upon the CBI to launch an inquiry into the matter. The allegations suggest a substantial allocation of funds towards interior decoration, stone and marble flooring, interior consultancy, electrical fittings, fire fighting systems, wardrobe and accessories fitting, and kitchen appliances. 

Furthermore, a separate sum of Rs 8.11 crore from the sanctioned amount was utilized for the Chief Minister's camp office.

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