File Picture Courtesy : The Asian Age
In a ruling that is seen as a shot in the arm for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Supreme Court has ruled in favour of the Aam Aadmi Party led-Delhi government. It further said that the Lieutenant Governor is bound to act on the aid and advice by its Council of Ministers.
Soon after the SC verdict in his government’s favour , an elated and relieved Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal tweeted his reaction
A big victory for the people of Delhi…a big victory for democracy…
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) July 4, 2018
The AAP party and the LG had been at loggerheads in recent times over host of issues thus undermining the governance in Delhi.
According to the SC ruling , the LG i.e Anil Baijal is also bound to send files to the President in case of differences of opinion, in exceptional matters.
The court said the LG has not been inferred with independent decision-making powers. He cannot act as an “obstructionist”.
The apex court added that the LG and the Delhi government have to work harmoniously.
The LG must realise that it is the Council of Ministers, who are answerable to the people and he cannot stall every decision of the National Capital Territory (NCT) government, the bench said.
