Controversy erupts over Delhi's Independence Day flag hoisting amid Kejriwal's imprisonment

A dispute has arisen over the Delhi government's upcoming Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony, following a request from Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently imprisoned, to allow Cabinet Minister Atishi to hoist the national flag in his place.

Delhi's general administration department has deemed the request "not legally valid," citing prison regulations.

The controversy began after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Delhi minister Gopal Rai instructed the department to arrange for Atishi to hoist the tricolor at Chhatrasal Stadium, following a meeting with Kejriwal in Tihar jail. Kejriwal had also communicated this request to Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena last week.

The general administration department, however, stated that any communication from Kejriwal, whether written or oral, that is not in accordance with prison rules, cannot be considered legally valid or acted upon. The department had initially sought Kejriwal's availability for the Independence Day function but, due to his judicial custody, the matter has been referred to higher authorities for a final decision.

Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia criticized the response, asserting that the flag should be hoisted by the Chief Minister or a Minister from the elected government. He also accused the Lieutenant Governor of acting in a dictatorial manner, expressing doubt about his commitment to democratic principles.

The situation remains unresolved as Delhi's Independence Day celebration approaches, with tensions between the AAP government and the Lieutenant Governor's office continuing to simmer.