The Delhi High Court has briefly heard a petition by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) seeking a government residence in the national capital for its national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal.
Justice Sachin Datta listed the matter for a detailed hearing on August 25, placing it at the top of the court’s board.
Party’s Claim
Appearing for AAP, Senior Advocate Rahul Mehra argued that the Guidelines for Allotment of Accommodation from the General Pool to Political Parties clearly state that the president of a recognised national party is entitled to one government residence in Delhi, provided they do not own a house or hold another government-allotted accommodation in any official capacity.
“All pre-conditions are met. There is a national convenor, who is also the national president. We are requesting a centrally located residence,” Mehra submitted.
Letters & Reminders Went Unanswered
The court was informed that AAP had first written to the authorities on September 20 last year, followed by a reminder, but no action had been taken.
Mehra also reminded the bench that in the past, the court had granted AAP office space when it lacked one. “The current request is for residential accommodation,” he said, emphasising that it falls within the scope of the existing rules.
Kejriwal Vacated The Official Residence in October
The petition notes that Kejriwal vacated his official residence at 6, Flagstaff Road on October 4 after resigning as Chief Minister. Since then, he has been staying at the official residence of another party member near Mandi House.
AAP argues that the absence of an allotted residence for its national president is inconsistent with the guidelines and hampers his ability to discharge party-related duties from the capital.
With the court agreeing to take up the matter for a full hearing later this month, the case now hinges on whether the guidelines for political party accommodation apply in the way AAP claims.
The detailed hearing on August 25 will decide if Kejriwal, in his capacity as AAP’s national president, is entitled to a centrally located government residence in Delhi despite no longer holding a constitutional office.
Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International
