Kejriwal's former residence as CM may become luxury hotel as Delhi govt eyes commercial use of 6 Flagstaff Road
New Delhi, July 17
The Delhi government is considering a proposal to develop former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence, dubbed as "Sheesh Mahal" by the BJP, at 6 Flagstaff Road, Civil Lines, into a luxury hospitality venue or hotel, according to Public Works Department sources.
Under the proposed plan, the premises would be used on a priority basis for government events, meetings and conferences. During periods when it is not required for official purposes, the facility could be opened for private events and bookings.
The PWD is preparing a detailed proposal for the operation, maintenance and commercial utilisation of the entire property. Officials said the government is exploring options to hand over the operational responsibility to an experienced hospitality company or run it under Delhi's Bed & Breakfast (B&B) policy.
PWD Minister Pravesh Verma said the objective behind the proposal is to reduce the high maintenance expenditure of the property and generate revenue from government assets.
"The government will retain full control over the property, and all necessary approvals will be obtained before implementing any plan," officials said.
Earlier, proposals to convert the premises into a state guest house, cultural centre, or hand it over to the central government were also considered. The latest proposal is based on a hybrid model that combines government use with commercial operations.
The incomplete 'camp office' located near the residence will also be completed as part of the plan. The facility will be used for government meetings and conferences and may also be made available for private events when not occupied for official work.
According to information previously presented in the Delhi Legislative Assembly, around Rs25 crore has already been spent on the camp office, while the total estimated project cost is around Rs 60 crore.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, this is smart thinking. Government assets sitting idle cost crores in maintenance. If we can generate revenue from it, why not? Better than letting it rot like the Nizamuddin bridge underpass. Just hope the tenders are transparent this time.
Interesting development but I keep seeing these plans change every few months. One day it's a museum, next a guest house, then a hotel. Make up your mind, Delhi government! Or better yet, spend that money on fixing our roads and schools. 🧐
Kejriwal's 'aam aadmi' image turns into a luxury hotel - what irony! 😂 But seriously, if the government can use it for official work and also earn money from private bookings, it's a win-win. Just ensure the common man can also afford to host events there.
Remember when this place was supposed to be a 'gareeb aadmi ka ghar'? Now it's going to be a luxury hotel. The ₹25 crore already spent on the camp office is a disgrace. Our politicians have forgotten what 'public service' means. Very disappointing. 👎
I'm an expat living in Delhi and this sounds like a decent idea. Many cities around the world use government properties for events to cover costs. India needs more creative revenue generation like this. But accountability is key - let's see the fine print before celebrating.
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