Delhi govt once again reminds Lt Governor to work inside jurisdiction

New Delhi: The Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi once again reminded Lt Governor VK Saxena to behave according to his Constitutional position while executing official business.

After Saxena issued directions to seize records and ordered executive action on the renovation of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence, PWD Minister of Delhi, Atishi, wrote the Lt governor saying that his actions were unconstitutional and undemocratic, adding that his orders were politically motivated.

Atishi asked Saxena to roll back his orders and "restore the scheme of governance intended by the Constitution for Delhi and its people", PTI quoted.

"We hope that you will not force the elected government to approach the court once again in respect of your actions," Atishi maintained.

After controversy erupted after crores of rupees were spent on renovating Kejriwal's official residence, Saxena had ordered to secure the records of expenditure and sought a report on the matter within 15 days.

When BJP raised that 45 crores were spent in the renovation of the residence at 6 Flagstaff Road here during 2020-22, AAP responded back that BJP was trying to divert attention from real issues by raising this matter.

The Lt governor's April 27 order states that there were "irregularities" in the renovation expenditure, to which Atishi said his communication is "unconstitutional" and "undemocratic".

She said that as the PWD minister of the city, she is primarily responsible for all government business pertaining to the department.

She asserted that the L-G's letter seeking the seizure of records and directing executive action is wholly outside the jurisdiction and authority of the office of the Lieutenant Governor and bypasses the minister and the council of ministers concerned, who are democratically responsible for the business of the Delhi government.

"As per Rule 4(2) of the Transaction of Business of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Rules, 1993 ('ToBR'), I find myself compelled by my constitutional duty to the people of Delhi in whose name I hold my mandate, to write to you regarding my concerns with the unconstitutional and undemocratic nature of your communication dated April 27," the letter said.