Parliament passes law granting greater power to Delhi L-G

Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2021. Notably, Lok Sabha had passed the bill on Monday, reported ANI.

The bill amends the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991, which provides a framework for the functioning of the Legislative Assembly and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. It amends certain responsibilities and powers of the Legislative Assembly and the Lieutenant Governor.

Also read: Arvind Kejriwal calls passage of GNCTD Bill ‘insult’ to people of Delhi

As per a report by PTI, the bill makes it clear that the “government” in the national capital means the “Lieutenant Governor”.

The bill also makes it mandatory for the Delhi government to take the opinion of the L-G before any executive action.

Before the Rajya Sabha session, ruling AAP said it will move the Supreme Court if the bill is passed by Parliament. Opposing the bill, the party alleged that it is unconstitutional.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy said the amendments to the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act were in no way undemocratic.

Parliament proceedings witnessed two brief, back-to-back adjournments as Opposition members trooped in the well of the House raising slogans to protest against the bill.