New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is considering challenging the Home Ministry’s recent decision to expand the powers of the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi in the Supreme Court. On September 3, a presidential notification increased the authority of the LG, a move expected to reignite the ongoing conflict between the Centre and the Delhi government. On September 4, Deputy Mayor of Delhi, Aley Mohammad Iqbal, stated that the party is currently seeking legal advice on the matter and may approach the Supreme Court.
According to the newly issued gazette by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the LG now has the authority to constitute any authority, board, commission, or statutory body in Delhi. Additionally, the LG can appoint any government officer or ex-officio member to such entities. These powers have been granted under Section 45 of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, effectively giving the LG powers similar to those of the President in certain administrative areas.
A New Phase in the Centre-Delhi Conflict?
This decision is expected to escalate the long-standing power tussle between the Delhi government and the Centre. The core issue in this dispute has always been the extent of authority wielded by each entity in the capital. Previously, the Central Government passed an Act outlining the distribution of powers between the LG and the Chief Minister of Delhi. However, the Supreme Court later ruled in favour of the Delhi CM, limiting the LG’s powers. Despite this, the President approved the Delhi Government (Amendment) Bill 2023 last year, further complicating the governance dynamics.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has consistently opposed these moves, and the history of conflicts between the Delhi government and the Centre has often resulted in legal and political battles. The ongoing tension has seen several AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, face imprisonment over various disputes with the central government.
Fresh Dispute Over Ward Committee Election
The recent decision to expand the LG’s powers has already led to fresh controversy. On Monday, a clash occurred over the postponement of the election for the ward committee member of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). Delhi Mayor Dr Shelly Oberoi declined to appoint a presiding officer for the ward committee election scheduled for September 4, declaring the election process unconstitutional. In contrast, the LG instructed the MCD Commissioner to proceed with the election.
What’s Next for AAP?
As AAP consults legal experts, a Supreme Court challenge could be on the horizon, further intensifying the political drama in Delhi. The party’s next steps are awaited with keen interest, as this new development could set the stage for yet another confrontation between the Delhi government and the Centre.
With the governance of Delhi remaining a contentious issue, all eyes are now on the potential legal battle that could redefine the balance of power in the national capital.
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