'Arvind Kejriwal To Be Allotted Government Residence In 10 Days,' Centre Tells Delhi High Court
New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal will be allotted an appropriate government residence within 10 days, said Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday, September 25.
During a hearing in Delhi High Court on Thursday, Senior Advocate Rahul Mehra, appearing for AAP, argued that Mr Kejriwal is entitled to a Type 7 or Type 8 bungalow and that the government could not downgrade him to a Type 5, suggesting discriminatory treatment.
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However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing virtually assured Justice Sachin Datta that the AAP chief will be allotted the appropriate accommodation within 10 days from today, asking the court to record his statement.
The Court recorded the assurance and noted that the matter should not be left hanging. Justice Datta said the practice of the Ministry in handling allotments must be addressed comprehensively, not only for politicians but also for non-politicians.
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Justice Datta, while observing that the solution lay in dialogue rather than litigation, granted liberty to Kejriwal to approach the Ministry directly to resolve the issue. The judge concluded stating he will record that appropriate accommodation will be given within 10 days.
Earlier, the Delhi High Court had expressed displeasure at the Centre’s handling of Kejriwal’s housing request, observing that the allotment process should not appear arbitrary or selective.
After resigning as chief minister, Kejriwal vacated his official residence at 6, Flagstaff Road in October 2024 and since has been staying at another party member’s official quarters near Mandi House. The AAP has been demanding for the bungalow at 35 Lodhi Estate, which was earlier occupied by BSP chief Mayawati.
However, the Centre has informed the Court that the property had already been allotted to a Minister of State, adding that political parties could not demand a specific bungalow and that allotments would depend on availability and the waiting list.
