The Delhi Government's proposed bill to amend the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act aims to replace the existing ordinance concerning transfers and postings of senior officers. On Monday, the Rajya Sabha approved the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, securing 131 votes in favour and 102 against. During the Rajya Sabha debate, Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured that the bill aligns with the Supreme Court's ruling and seeks to enhance efficient and corruption-free governance in Delhi. Shah emphasized that the bill maintains the current system's framework and does not alter its status. He justified the need for the ordinance by citing instances where officers were transferred by the Delhi government due to ongoing investigations into liquor-related scams.
Responding to the bill, AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal was criticized by Shah for joining forces with the Congress party. Shah suggested that Kejriwal might leave the opposition once the Delhi services bill is enacted. Shah clarified that the bill's purpose is not to impose an emergency or infringe upon people's rights, emphasizing that the Central Government derives its authority from the citizens of India.
Earlier, AAP MP Raghav Chadha denounced the bill, labelling it a "political fraud" and a "constitutional sin" that could create administrative complications. Chadha pointed out that the BJP, which had previously advocated for Delhi's statehood, is contradicting its past promises and undermining the efforts of leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Lal Krishna Advani to grant Delhi full state status. Chadha also criticized Amit Shah for invoking Jawaharlal Nehru's name in support of the bill.
Congress member Abhishek Manu Singhvi also opposed the legislation, deeming it "retrogressive" and "completely unconstitutional." Singhvi argued that the bill directly challenges the people of Delhi and infringes upon the principles of federalism.
A dramatic scene unfolded in the House when the opposition's motion to refer the bill to a select committee was discussed. Some members, including BJD MP Sasmit Patra and BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi, claimed that their names were included in the motion without their consent. Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the need for an investigation into this matter. Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh confirmed that a probe would be initiated based on complaints from Rajya Sabha MPs. The bill had previously been passed by the Lok Sabha the previous week.
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
