Presidential Delegation of Powers Sparks Potential Clash in Delhi
President Droupadi Murmu has granted Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena the authority to form and appoint members to any authority, board, commission, or statutory body under laws enacted by Parliament for the capital. The Ministry of Home Affairs made this announcement on Tuesday.
Details of the Presidential Order
In a gazette notification, the Ministry of Home Affairs clarified the scope of this delegation. “The President hereby directs that the Lieutenant Governor of the National Capital Territory of Delhi shall, subject to the control of the President and until further orders, exercise the powers of the President under clause (a) of section 45D of the said Act for the constitution of any authority, board, commission or any statutory body,” the notification stated.
Likely Impact on Delhi’s Political Landscape
This new order is expected to ignite fresh tensions between the Lieutenant Governor and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi. The move follows last year’s Presidential assent to the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2023. This bill established the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA), chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, with two senior Delhi government officials as members. The authority is empowered to make decisions by majority, with the final decision resting with the Lieutenant Governor.
AAP’s Response to the Presidential Order
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has previously accused the Centre of trying to “arm-twist” the residents of Delhi and undermine their electoral choices. This latest order may fuel further disputes over the control and governance of the capital.
Allegations Against the Lieutenant Governor
Earlier in the day, Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj criticized L-G VK Saxena, alleging that he planned to misuse taxpayers’ money to enhance his image through social media campaigns. Bharadwaj called this effort a “conspiracy” to sway voters before the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi. “LG sir has such a desire to become famous… by paying from Delhi taxpayers’ money. It is a matter of shame,” Bharadwaj remarked.
Conclusion
The delegation of these significant powers to the Lieutenant Governor is poised to deepen the ongoing power struggle between Delhi’s AAP government and the central authority, with potential implications for the governance of the national capital.
