Former MP and senior Congress Leader Sandeep Dixit has expressed support for the Central government’s ordinance against the Supreme Court judgement on the powers of the government of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. Dixit’s stance differs from that of his party, the Congress, and he argues that the Bill is in line with the constitutional status of the city. In response, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has reacted, asserting that Dixit’s views do not hold any significance, as the Congress leadership has decided to oppose the Delhi ordinance bill.
Support for Delhi Ordinance: Sandeep Dixit, the son of the late former Chief Minister Shiela Dikshit, has voiced his support for the Central government’s ordinance on the powers of the Delhi government. He believes that the Bill aligns with the constitutional status of Delhi and should be passed in the Lok Sabha.
Disagreement within Congress: Dixit’s view contradicts the official position of the Congress party, which has decided to oppose the Delhi ordinance bill. His stance highlights the division of opinions within the party on this issue.
Vigilance Department and Power Struggle: Dixit points out that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is seeking control of the vigilance department to avoid potential legal consequences. He claims that Kejriwal is aware that not having control over this department may result in him facing imprisonment for eight to ten years.
AAP’s Reaction: AAP leader and Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has responded to Dixit’s statement by asserting that it holds no significance since the Congress leadership has already decided to oppose the Delhi ordinance bill. This reaction emphasizes the ongoing political tensions between the two parties.
Government of NCT of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023: The Government of NCT of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aims to replace an ordinance that excluded ‘services’ from the legislative competence of the Delhi legislative assembly. The ordinance was introduced in response to a Supreme Court order granting power of transfer and posting to the Delhi government.
Calls for Full Statehood: Dixit questions why the opposition alliance does not bring a bill to Parliament to grant Delhi the status of a full state if they genuinely want to enhance its powers. He argues that the Union Territory’s powers are limited according to the Constitution, and the ordinance only divides those powers according to the structure of Delhi.
Sandeep Dixit’s support for the Delhi ordinance despite his party’s opposition highlights the complexities and divergent opinions within the political landscape regarding the powers and governance of Delhi. The ongoing debate over the ordinance underscores the importance of clear legislation and constitutional provisions for effective governance in the National Capital Territory.
