BJP's attempt to override Delhi govt's power through ordinance: Kejriwal to move court against central govt

NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal strongly criticized the central ordinance appointing a three-member authority for the appointment and transfer of government officials. He alleged that the issuance of the new ordinance when the court ruling on the scope of the government's powers is in order was contempt of court. Kejriwal also accused the BJP government of challenging the Supreme Court ruling that the Delhi government has the power to appoint and transfer, including IAS officers. He also stated that he will approach the court against the ordinance.

The central government issued the new ordinance following the Supreme Court verdict that clarified the administrative powers vested in the Delhi government. The new authority consists of Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Home Secretary as members. In case of disagreement between the members of the committee, the final decision will be taken by the Lieutenant Governor. The Aam Aadmi Party had earlier responded to the issue by saying that the Center brought the Ordinance to override the Chief Minister's absolute power which was obtained through the Supreme Court verdict. The Aam Aadmi Party also accused the Prime Minister of the largest democratic country of having no faith in democracy.