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Delhi LG Slams Atishi Over Non-Tabling of CAG Reports, ‘Consciously Chose Not To Adhere to Constitution’

November 29, 2024, 7:44 pm

In a strongly worded letter to Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of undermining constitutional accountability by failing to table the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports in the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The issue has reignited political tensions between the LG’s office and the ruling party, with Saxena calling the omission a “gross constitutional impropriety.”

Highlighting his concerns, LG Saxena stated, “It is unfortunate that the government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has consciously chosen not to adhere to this constitutional norm, thereby avoiding disclosure and public scrutiny of the performance of the government.” He referenced Article 151 of the Constitution, Section 48 of the Government of NCT of Delhi Act, 1991, and Regulation 210 of the Regulations on Audit and Accounts, 2007, to underline the mandatory nature of laying CAG reports in the Assembly.

The LG noted repeated communications on the matter, including letters to Atishi’s predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal, as early as February, and to the Speaker in August. “CAG is mandated not just to ensure financial propriety but to evaluate the efficacy of public expenditure. It pains me to write this communication to a government that won a popular mandate on the plank of transparency and accountability,” Saxena wrote.

The timing of the LG’s remarks—on the eve of the Assembly session and with elections looming—has added fuel to the political fire. Saxena further remarked, “Even as the Assembly reconvenes today—presumably for the last time before elections—the agenda and list of businesses so far do not reflect the laying of CAG Reports pertaining to government departments.”

Responding to the letter, a delegation of BJP MLAs met Saxena, demanding swift action to ensure the AAP government adheres to its constitutional duties. BJP leader Ramvir Singh Bidhuri accused the AAP of “running away from transparency,” saying, “This government talks about honesty but refuses to present audit reports. What are they hiding?”

The AAP, however, hit back, with party spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar calling the LG’s letter a politically motivated stunt. “The LG is interfering in the democratic functioning of the government yet again. This is a desperate attempt to malign the AAP government before elections,” she said.

Atishi, who also holds the finance portfolio, has yet to respond publicly to the allegations. However, political observers view the LG’s move as a strategic escalation in the long-standing power tussle between the LG’s office and the AAP government.

Saxena’s concluding remarks aimed to appeal to Atishi’s credentials: “You are an accomplished public leader with a stellar academic record. I am sanguine that you shall heed my counsel and uphold public trust during the ongoing session of the Assembly.”

Also read: PM Modi in Odisha: Spirit of Constitution Crushed; All Norms of Democracy Rejected By Opposition

With the Assembly session underway and the elections drawing closer, this clash over CAG reports is likely to dominate Delhi’s political narrative in the coming weeks.

LG Saxena: Atishi Better Than Kejriwal

November 22, 2024, 6:17 pm

In a rare commendation, Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena lauded Chief Minister Atishi, stating she is “a thousand times better” than her predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal. This unexpected praise comes amid a backdrop of political shifts and administrative challenges in the national capital.

Atishi’s Ascension to Chief Minister

Atishi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), assumed the role of Delhi’s Chief Minister on September 21, 2024. Her appointment followed the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal, who stepped down to address allegations related to the excise policy case. Kejriwal’s resignation was seen as a strategic move to uphold his party’s integrity and focus on clearing his name.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at Raj Niwas, was a subdued affair, reflecting the somber mood within the party due to Kejriwal’s departure. Atishi was administered the oath of office by LG VK Saxena, marking her as Delhi’s third woman Chief Minister, following in the footsteps of Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. In her inaugural address, Atishi expressed deep respect for Kejriwal, referring to him as her “guru” and pledging to continue his vision for Delhi.

Lieutenant Governor’s Unprecedented Praise

The LG’s commendation of Atishi is particularly noteworthy given the historically strained relations between the Delhi government and the LG’s office. Saxena’s statement that Atishi is “a thousand times better” than Kejriwal suggests a potential shift towards a more collaborative governance model in Delhi. This praise underscores Atishi’s administrative capabilities and her potential to lead Delhi effectively.

Atishi’s Background and Vision

An Oxford University alumna and Rhodes Scholar, Atishi has been a key figure in Delhi’s education reforms. As an advisor to the education department under Kejriwal’s leadership, she played a pivotal role in transforming the city’s public education system, earning widespread acclaim for her efforts. Her tenure as Education Minister further solidified her reputation as a dedicated and effective administrator.

Upon taking office as Chief Minister, Atishi outlined her priorities, emphasizing the continuation of welfare schemes initiated by the AAP government. She highlighted the importance of improving public health infrastructure, enhancing education quality, and addressing environmental concerns, particularly air pollution—a perennial issue in Delhi. Atishi also expressed a commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable government, aiming to build trust between the administration and Delhi’s residents.

Political Implications and Future Prospects

The LG’s endorsement of Atishi may have significant political ramifications. It could signal a period of reduced friction between the Delhi government and the central authorities, potentially facilitating smoother implementation of policies and projects. This development might also influence public perception, bolstering Atishi’s standing ahead of the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for early next year.

However, challenges remain. Atishi’s administration must navigate the complexities of Delhi’s unique governance structure, where the LG holds substantial authority. Balancing this dynamic while delivering on her policy promises will be crucial for her tenure’s success.

Reactions to the LG’s praise have been mixed. AAP supporters view it as validation of Atishi’s leadership qualities and a positive omen for Delhi’s future. Conversely, critics argue that such endorsements should be measured against tangible outcomes and caution against premature conclusions.

Political analysts suggest that this development could alter the power dynamics within Delhi’s political landscape. A more harmonious relationship between the Chief Minister and the LG could lead to expedited policy implementations, benefiting the city’s populace.

Also read: Supreme Court Orders Delhi to Establish Checkpoints at All 113 Entry Points

Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena’s rare and emphatic praise of Chief Minister Atishi marks a significant moment in Delhi’s political narrative. As Atishi embarks on her tenure, this endorsement may pave the way for a more collaborative and effective governance model in the capital. The coming months will reveal how this newfound rapport translates into policy actions and impacts the lives of Delhi’s residents.

‘Didn’t Know We Needed Permission’: Delhi Lt Governor Responds To Supreme Court On Tree Felling

October 23, 2024, 12:26 pm

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has informed the Supreme Court that he was unaware that permission was required for the felling of trees in the Ridge area, an extension of the Aravallis. This statement was made in a personal affidavit submitted prior to a court hearing concerning the alleged illegal cutting of over 600 trees. The court, which is addressing a contempt case related to this matter, has asked Saxena—who also serves as the chairperson of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA)—to outline the actions being taken to hold accountable those responsible for the deforestation.

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In his affidavit, Saxena recounted his visit to the Ridge area on February 3, where plans for a medical facility for armed forces are underway. He stated that while he stopped to inspect the site of road widening, none of the individuals present informed him of the requirement for court permission to fell trees. The Supreme Court has indicated that should the chairperson acknowledge accountability, it may pursue criminal action against the officials involved in the tree cutting.

Atishi urges LG for suspension of Jal Board CEO citing woman’s death during scuffle

April 15, 2024, 8:11 am

Expressing deep concern about the recent tragedy in East Delhi, where a woman lost her life in a dispute over alleged water supply inadequacy, Atishi, a prominent leader of the AAP party and a minister in Delhi, has called upon Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to take urgent action. Atishi urged for the immediate suspension of the CEO of Delhi Jal Board within 24 hours, holding him accountable for what she described as “criminal negligence” occurring under his oversight.

In addition to this, Atishi has also appealed to L-G Saxena to address the broader issues regarding water supply in the national capital. In a letter dated April 14, she detailed the incident, stating, “A shocking incident has happened in the Farsh Bazar/ Bhikam Singh Colony area of East Delhi where shortage of water supply led to violence, and has culminated in the death of a woman.” She emphasized that both the Chief Minister and herself had provided clear directives and a roadmap for improving water supply over the past year. Despite repeated instructions given to the CEO of Delhi Jal Board and the Chief Secretary over the last six months, no significant action has been taken to alleviate the water crisis in the city.

Atishi highlighted the numerous reminders sent to the CEO of DJB and the chief secretary in recent weeks to ensure water supply augmentation, including the installation of tube wells and water tankers. She expressed frustration over the lack of response, noting, “Grievances regarding water shortage have regularly been sent to Chief Secretary on WhatsApp.” She further mentioned a specific instance on April 3, 2024, where she demanded an action-taken-report on steps being taken by DJB, only to receive a dismissive response from the CEO citing the Model Code of Conduct.

The minister condemned the ‘callous inaction’ of the DJB officers, attributing it directly to the tragic loss of life in East Delhi. She called for immediate and exemplary action against those responsible, asserting, “This inaction is tantamount to criminal negligence and cannot be ignored.” Atishi also alleged a deliberate effort to hinder DJB’s funding, which she claimed has paralyzed the board for nearly a year due to non-release of funds by the Finance Department.

In conclusion, Atishi urged the L-G to promptly address the situation and take decisive action against those accountable for the water shortage, emphasizing the urgency in preventing such tragedies from occurring again. Previously, a 15-year-old girl was apprehended by Delhi police for allegedly stabbing a woman during a dispute related to water supply in Shahdara’s Farsh Bazar area.

Delhi LG orders transfer of several IPS officers, amid recent emerging threats

January 12, 2024, 4:25 pm

On Friday, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena of Delhi issued an order reorganizing several IPS officers, following the Police Establishment Board’s recommendation. This order represents a significant change in authority for these IPS rank officials, especially in light of recent emerging threats such as the security breach in the parliament and the second attack outside the Israel embassy. In addition to law and order special CP, National Capital also receives a new chief of the anti-terror squad. The head of the Delhi police special cell will be Rajendra Pal Upadhaya, an IPS graduate from 1991. The security wing will beled by Dependra Pathak, who is officially serving as special CP. Ravinder Yadav, an IPS graduate from the 1995 batch.

DCP New Delhi whose area saw the parliament attacks and the Israel embassy blast threat has been transferred to the special branch whereas Sagar Preet Hooda who was in the position of special CP, Law and Order has been transferred to PCR and communications.
Last year during the Parliament Winter session, two people–Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D–jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber from the public gallery during Zero Hour, released yellow gas from canisters and shouted anti-establishment slogans before being overpowered by the MPs.
Outside it, in another incident, two protestors — Neelam (42) and Amol (25) — protested outside the Parliament with similar gas canisters.

Supply of ‘non-standard’ drugs in Delhi government hospitals: Vigilance department writes to health secretary

December 24, 2023, 6:28 pm

Regarding the “Not of Standard Quality” medications being supplied to Delhi government hospitals, the Delhi Special Vigilance Department wrote to the health secretary on Sunday, requesting clarification on the amount paid to companies and manufacturers thus far.

“You are requested to ensure that all such drugs which have failed the prescribed norms should be immediately qualified and seized as per the due process of law on a war footing,” read the letter.
“Secondly, you are requested to ensure the followings; 1. That no further payment is made to such companies. 2. That all the failed drugs may be immediately identified and should be removed from the stock of all the hospitals where such drugs have been supplied so as to ensure that the general public are not administered with such ‘Not of Standard Quality Drugs’ 3. May also clarify since when these drugs are being procured and supplied,” it added.

The letter went on to say, “Please clarify the amount of money that has been paid to these manufacturers and companies thus far, as well as the amount that is still outstanding. In addition, you are asked to promptly obtain all records pertaining to the purchase of pharmaceuticals, including tender documents and files, and to give the directorate of vigilance an original copy of each document.”

“You are also requested to provide terms and conditions of the appointment of dealers/distributers for the execution of supply in respect of above-failed drugs. Action taken report may kindly be submitted in next 48 hour,” it added.
Earlier on Saturday, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena recommended a CBI inquiry into “Not of Standard Quality” drugs being supplied in Delhi government hospitals.
“I am, to say the least, anguished at the fact that lakhs of hapless people and patients are being supplied fake drugs that have failed quality standard tests,” the L-G said in a letter to Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar directing him for the investigation.

Gujarat HC stays proceedings against Delhi LG VK Saxena in 2002 assault case

May 24, 2023, 4:05 pm

The Gujarat High Court has halted the trial of Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena in an alleged assault case filed by activist Medha Patkar. The court cited constitutional protection provided to Saxena as long as he remains in the position of LG. The case stems from a complaint filed by Patkar in 2002, accusing Saxena and three others of assaulting her. The Gujarat High Court issued a restraining order to a lower court in Ahmedabad, preventing it from proceeding with the trial against the Delhi LG. The court acknowledged Saxena’s argument that he is protected under the Constitution while holding the LG office and stated that his counsel’s arguments require further consideration. Additionally, notices were issued to Patkar. Saxena’s counsel also pointed out that the delay in the 2002 trial was caused by Patkar’s 94 adjournment applications.

In the petition, Saxena contented that Patkar “falsely implicated” him as he had exposed her “anti-Gujarat” and “anti-Sardar Sarovar Project” activities under the guise of ‘Narmada Bachao Andolan’ in the year 2000.His counsel submitted that the Delhi LG has been ab intio vigorously defending the “motivated, vexatious and vindictive” prosecution instituted by the complainant, Medha Patkar.Saxena, who has challenged the May 8, 2023 order of the trial court, also sought an interim stay on further proceedings which was granted by the High Court.

“Meanwhile, ad-interim relief (of stay of Trial Court order) in terms of para 11 (B) qua the present petitioner (VK Saxena) Direct service is permitted,” said Justice M K Thakker in the interim order passed on May 23.The HC said the contentions raised by Saxena’s counsel “requires consideration” and issued notices to Patkar and the state returnable on June 19.
Senior advocate Jal S Unwalla and advocate Ajay Kumar Choksi, appearing for the LG, submitted that he has been protected by Article 361 (2) (3) of the Constitution and the trial court has arrived at apparently erroneous findings that granting protection to him and recording statements of witnesses after he demits office of LG would delay the trial.

Delhi LG VK Saxena asks CM about miserable hygiene and sanitary conditions

March 11, 2023, 6:52 pm

LG VK Saxena writes to CM, flags the miserable hygiene and sanitary conditions at Wazirabad Water Treatment Plant, that supplies drinking water to large parts of Delhi.

Let Delhi see what kind of water we are drinking.

LG also flags gross inaction on part of DJB in cleaning/desilting the pond reservoir behind Wazirabad barrage, that supplies water to Wazirabad and Chandrawal Water Treatment Plants.

Despite a desilting contract being in place since 2013, no desiltation took place resulting in the depth of the pond reducing from 4.26 Mtrs to a mere 0.42 Mtrs during the last 8 years.

The pond had a capacity to hold 250 million gallons of water, but it has now gotten reduced due to siltation ny 93% and can now holds only 16 million gallons.

Frequent water shortage in the City including the one that recently took place before Holi, on account of Wazirabad and Chandrawal WTPs not being operational fully, is solely due to this reason and not due to the Haryana Excuses that AAP makes to fool the people.

Delhi L-G VK Saxena invites CM Kejriwal for talks

January 26, 2023, 6:47 pm

Amid the tussle between the Governor and the elected government Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has invited Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his ministers, and 10 MLAs of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party for a meeting on Friday.

Since 2013, the Aam Aadmi Party has formed the government there has been seen a rift and tussle between the Governor of Delhi and the Arvind Kejriwal Government.

Earlier last week AAP had held a protest march to LG Saxena’s doorstep regarding the proposal to train Delhi government school teachers in Finland.

Meanwhile, the protest was attended by CM Kejriwal and all his ministers and MLAs as the Lieutenant Governor had objected to the proposal of sending a teacher to Finland for training.

Ahead of Republic Day Delhi CM attended the ‘at home’ function of the Lieutenant Governor on Tuesday where they were seen warmly greeting each another during the function. The function was attended by many politicians from BJP and other parties.

After this Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia alleged that L-G Saxena had put up queries as a way of canceling the trip on which the Lieutenant Governor’s office denied all the claims and said they had advised a cost-benefit analysis.

Taking to Twitter Lieutenant Governor’s office tweeted, “The LG has not rejected the proposal of a training program for Primary-in-charges in Finland. Any statement, on the contrary, is misleading and mischievously motivated.”

Taking part in the protest march on 16 January CM Kejriwal questioned LG Saxena and asked, “It’s a government elected by Delhi’s people. It’s Delhi taxpayers’ money. For the education of Delhi’s. What problem does the LG have?”

However, in the assembly also this issue was raised when CM Kejriwal said, ‘Who is this LG? He is sitting on our heads. Who is he to decide how our children should be educated? These people have let our children stay uneducated. The LG doesn’t have the power to stop us. Nothing is permanent in life. We may be in power at the Centre tomorrow, with our LG. Our government will not harass people.”

Delhi mayor election: No polls; House adjourned after ruckus

January 24, 2023, 11:40 am

Due to a continuous uproar in the house of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi has been adjourned. The house adjourned after continuous uproar by BJP councilors and again Mayor’s election could not be held on Tuesday.

Earlier, the elections for the coveted posts of Mayor and Deputy Mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) started on Tuesday.

After the ruckus created by Aam Aadmi Party and Bharatiya Janata Party councilors nearly three weeks ago the process was adjourned.

Meanwhile, at the Civic center, heavy security was seen deployed, and after oaths are administered in the House to aldermen and the newly elected councilors the mayoral elections will begin.

Moreover, BJP councilor Satya Sharma will preside over the house who has been appointed presiding officer by the lieutenant governor (LG) VK Saxena.

“Today BJP has brought force with sticks to take possession of Municipal Corporation. Have you seen this in any House?” AAP MLA Saurabh Bharadwaj questioned the heavy security deployment.

However, AAP has fielded Aaley Mohammad Iqbal and the BJP has fielded Ram Nagar councilor Kamal Bagri for the deputy mayor post.

Delhi L-G VK Saxena chair meeting of Yamuna panel; 6-month action plan finalized

January 21, 2023, 4:52 pm

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena headed the meeting for Yamuna rejuvenation on Saturday along with the NGT-constituted high-level committee and has finalized taken eight parameters with monthly targets till June.

Meanwhile, for Yamuna rejuvenation parameters include augmenting sewage treatment, sewage treatment plants (STPs), tapping and cleaning of drains, sewage network in unauthorized colonies and JJ clusters, septage management, minimum environmental flow, upgradation of 13 CETPs for treatment and management.

Earlier on Friday the Delhi L-G chaired the first meeting of the high-level committee.

“After taking stock of the prevalent situation of water quality in the river Yamuna and the various drains in the city, along with the status of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) in the city and dwelling upon the gaps in the actions taken till now, the meeting deliberated upon a concrete future plan of action,” LG office stated.

Moreover, till 31 January committee has been asked to submit its first report.

“A six-month plan of action till June 2023, with monthly targets, was decided upon. The same will be monitored on a weekly basis and the first report to the NGT will be submitted on January 31,” the statement further said.

“The task at hand is difficult due to legacy neglect, but yet achievable. Ensure implementation of the decisions taken today in a mission mode, without extending committed timelines. Any shortcoming on part of officials will not be accepted,” Delhi L-G said.

Earlier on 9 January the National Green Tribunal a committee was constituted for the rejuvenation of the Yamuna.

Following the Supreme Court order the bench observed and said, “It does appear that the situation to a great extent remains unsatisfactory, in violation of the judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and orders of this Tribunal, fixing rigid timelines which are being defied at whims, without accountability and without visible improvement in the ground situation. Thus, an effective execution regime appears to be necessary with the involvement of topmost administrative authorities with the flexibility of procedures for the award of works for execution of pollution prevention projects.”

Delhi MCD Mayor election to be held on 24 January

January 16, 2023, 2:06 pm

Delhi Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Mayor elections will be held on 24 January 2023 and this has been approved by Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena.

Meanwhile, on 24 January councilors will be administered the oath, and for Mayor and Deputy Mayor elections will be held.

Earlier on 6 January a major ruckus was created by the Aam Aadmi Party and Bharatiya Janata Party councilors. Both parties blamed each other for the mayoral election debacle.

On 6 January AAP and BJP councilors were seen exchanging blows, hurling chairs, and climbing atop tables.

Moreover, the election of the mayor and the oath-taking of the councilors were adjourned for the first time in the history of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.

However, the MCD House comprises 250 elected councilors, and by the appointment of the Delhi Assembly Speaker, the BJP has nominated seven Lok Sabha MPs from Delhi and the AAP’s three Rajya Sabha MPs and 14 MLAs.

Furthermore, in December, the Aam Aadmi Party ended the BJP’s 15-year rule in the MCD elections and won 134 wards, while the BJP managed to win 104 wards.

Kejriwal meets L-G VK Saxena today

January 13, 2023, 9:01 am

Arvind Kejriwal, the chief minister, and Vinay Kumar Saxena, the lieutenant governor of Delhi, are scheduled to meet at 4 p.m. on Friday.

CM Arvind Kejriwal will bring a copy of the Constitution and all the legislation to the meeting with the Lieutenant Governor today, the official sources said.

Directorate of Information and Publicity issues notice to AAP, says properties will be sealed if not complied with

January 12, 2023, 12:04 pm

The Aam Aadmi Party on Wednesday was issued a notice by the Directorate of Information and Publicity (DIP) giving it a total of 10 days to deposit 163.62 crores. The notice was served for its political advertisements published allegedly in the form of government advertisements in the year 2016-17.

DIP on Wednesday issued the recovery notice, to the AAP. The Notice stated that it said had violated the guidelines on political advertisements issued by the Supreme Court and cost the State exchequer. According to sources, if the AAP fails to make the payment, legal action, including sealing of the office of the AAP and attachment of the properties of the party shall be done.

VK Saxena, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, had on December 19, 2022, directed the Delhi chief secretary to recover Rs 99.31 crore spent on advertisements in 2015-2016 from the AAP. The notice by DIP includes Rs 99.31 crore as principal and Rs 64.31 crore as interest.

In its judgements of May 2015 and March 2016 on a batch of writ petitions, the Supreme Court constituted in April 2016 a three-member Committee of Content Regulation of Government Advertising (CCRGA) under the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Its purpose was to regulate the advertising content and eliminate unproductive expenditure of government revenue.

After a complaint was filed by the Ajay Maken of the Congress Party, the CCRGA initiated an investigation and found certain advertisements by the Delhi government in violation of the apex court’s guidelines. The CCRGA thus directed the Delhi government’s DIP to quantify the amounts spent on such advertisements and recover the same from the AAP.

In its order on September 16, 2016, the CCRGA said “the main purpose and objectives of the guidelines framed by the Supreme Court was to prevent misuse of government fund for the projection of image of the politician or the political party in power.” “Since the same has happened even after the Supreme Court judgment, the only way it can be rectified is to make the political party, the main beneficiary in the process of violation, pay for the expenditure incurred by the government.”

A review petition was filed by the AAP government on September 22, 2016, which was dismissed by the committee on November 11, 2016.

A final opportunity is hereby given to the AAP to reimburse the amount within 10 days failing which further necessary action as per law will be taken

Delhi L-G approves Arvind Kejriwal government proposal to outsource mohalla clinics

December 28, 2022, 7:22 pm

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena gave his nod to a proposal to outsource private diagnostic and lab services to mohalla clinics on Wednesday. “Expressing grave reservations on an obvious attempt at private outsourcing of Diagnostic Services in Delhi government hospitals, rather than strengthening them, LG VK Saxena has agreed to the Kejriwal government decision to outsource diagnostic and lab services in government hospitals to three private players, as a fait accompli presented to him,” Raj Niwas statement reads. Earlier on 28 July, the Kejriwal cabinet decided to outsource these mohalla clinics, hospitals, dispensaries, polyclinics, and health camps, including PUHCs.

Sisodia meets LG to approve ‘Dilli ki Yogshala’ project

October 29, 2022, 3:16 pm

Officials with knowledge of the situation claimed deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia met with lieutenant governor VK Saxena to ask him to approve the files pertaining to the Dilli Ki Yogshala project.

“I have requested the LG that this programme should not be stopped. More than 17,000 people who were affected by Covid and others were benefited by learning Yoga, and keeping the citizens healthy is the responsibility of the government,” Sisodia said, according to an official statement.

According to the statement, the LG has assured Sisodia that he will go through all the files.

According to the statement, Sisodia further claimed that the BJP was forcing authorities to halt the government’s main initiative.

“I told LG Saxena that the Dilli Ki Yogshala programme is very beneficial for people of Delhi and these 17,000 people come from common backgrounds and cannot hire Yoga instructors on their own. I have requested the LG to go out of the way to help these people,” he said.

Regarding the deputy CM’s visit, the LG made no remarks.

The BJP, however, disregarded Sisodia’s accusation as baseless. “Like many other issues, the Delhi government did not get the appropriate authority’s approval before starting this scheme. The file has already been delivered to the LG. “In a metropolis of two crore people, the project would not have benefited only 17,000 people over the past 18 months if the government had genuinely marketed it,” said Praveen Shankar Kapoor, a BJP spokesperson in Delhi.

The government offers free yoga lessons at 600 different venues throughout Delhi as part of the “Dilli Ki Yogshala” scheme. These yoga courses are offered in public areas and parks where anybody can attend.

Delhi LG VK Saxena slams Kejriwal over diversionary tactics

September 2, 2022, 10:57 am

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena lashed out at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday and said Kejriwal’s duty towards people of the national capital was to raise issues including “anomalies in excise policy” and “files not being signed by CM”.

In a series of tweets, LG said, “Abiding by the Constitution and my duties towards the people of Delhi, I flagged the issues of: 1. Grave anomalies in Excise Policy later withdrawn by the Cabinet headed by CM @ArvindKejriwalji himself, 2. Inordinate delay of 2.5 years in acting on CVC report on irregularities in the construction of Classrooms in Delhi Govt Schools 3. Files not being signed by CM @ArvindKejriwal Ji 4. CAG audits not being conducted timely in State Universities 5. Cabinet notes reaching me after Cabinet meetings, and 6. Non-availability of water in Foreign Missions, among others.”

Meanwhile, LG said in the right spirit he expected the address of CM Kejriwal.

“Unfortunately, the response has been nothing but subterfuge amounting to the defense of the indefensible and abusive personal attack on me,” LG said.

“As a public representative, CM needs to explain to the people ‘his art’ of converting Rs 17 lakhs, ascertained by CBI as demonetized currency exchanged by 2 employees of Khadi Bhawan Delhi, into Rs 1400 Cr as claimed by AAP,” LG added.

LG further added for good governance, zero tolerance for corruption, and better services Kejwiral was elected.

“But unfortunately CM @ArvindKejriwal Ji in desperation has resorted to diversionary tactics and false accusations. I would not be surprised if in the coming days more such baseless personal attacks are made on me and my family,” LG said.

“He should know that I will under no circumstances whatsoever be deterred from my constitutional duties. My commitment to improving the lives of the people of Delhi remains unwavering,” the LG said.

However, Delhi Lieutenant Governor had decided to take legal action against Aam Aadmi Party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj, Atishi, Durgesh Pathak, and Jasmine Shah among others.

The LG House officials said, “For highly defamatory and false allegations of corruption by them, attributed to his tenure as Chairman of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).”