IAS Officer Shikhar Agarwal Returns from USA Amid Villa-Cottage Controversy

Shikhar Agarwal's Return to Jaipur

Shikhar Agarwal, the IAS officer embroiled in the controversial purchase of 40 villas and cottages in Rajasthan, has returned to Jaipur from the United States. Following his trip, he resumed his duties in the personnel department on Wednesday. This development may lead to further investigations by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), which is expected to question him. The agency has already initiated a preliminary inquiry into the matter and has requested records from the company involved in the villa-cottage construction.

Involvement of His Wife in the Controversy

Notably, Shikhar Agarwal's wife, IPS officer Dr. Prashakha Mathur, is also implicated in this controversy. Both have been placed on 'awaiting posting orders' (APO) by the government. Following revelations by a media outlet, the government removed Agarwal from all his positions on October 29, while Mathur was similarly affected on October 31.

Details of Their Leave and Return

Agarwal had taken leave until November 11 for his trip to the USA, accompanied by his wife. Upon his return, he has now joined the personnel department, although he currently holds no departmental responsibilities due to his APO status. Meanwhile, the ACB is preparing to question him based on the facts uncovered during their preliminary investigation.

Financial Aspects of the Villa-Cottage Purchase

The controversy centers around the acquisition of 40 properties in Alwar and Udaipur. Agarwal, his wife, and family members purchased 20 villas in Ajabgarh and 20 cottages in Bujhda from Goyal Fashions Private Limited, spending a total of ₹6.16 crore. Interestingly, these properties were leased back to the same company immediately after purchase, making Goyal Fashions both the seller and tenant.

Lease Terms and Financial Implications

According to the lease agreement, the 20 cottages in Bujhda were leased at ₹4 lakh per cottage annually, while the 20 villas in Ajabgarh were leased at ₹5 lakh each per year. This arrangement is expected to generate a total annual lease income of ₹1.80 crore.

Timing of Property Registry and Economic Package

Another significant detail has emerged: the registry of the 20 villas in Ajabgarh took place on March 27, 2025, coinciding with the finance department's issuance of a special economic package to Goyal Fashions under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS). This package included tax exemptions and subsidies on employee salaries, raising questions about the timing of these transactions.

Allegations of Incomplete Property Returns

An additional aspect of the controversy involves allegations regarding the annual property returns. It is claimed that the details of the villas purchased in Ajabgarh were not included in the annual property returns. However, Agarwal asserts that he provided complete information regarding the properties, but it was not updated in the departmental records.

ACB Investigation into Potential Misconduct

The ACB's preliminary investigation is examining allegations that Agarwal used his influential government positions to grant undue advantages to Goyal Fashions. It is alleged that the company received concessions related to resort construction and benefited from the special economic package, resulting in financial losses for the state government. Agarwal has previously held significant roles, including Additional Chief Secretary in the Industry and MSME Department, and his return to Jaipur and resumption of duties will be closely monitored as the ACB continues its investigation.