Sep 28, 2024, 3:13 PM
Sep 28, 2024, 3:13 PM

Delhi CM Atishi challenges MCD polls as unconstitutional

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Highlights
  • Delhi CM Atishi criticized the BJP for holding MCD standing committee elections on October 5, 2023, claiming they violated the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act of 1957.
  • She stated that only the mayor has the authority to call for elections and emphasized that the LG and commissioner acted outside their legal powers.
  • Atishi vowed to challenge the elections in the Supreme Court, calling for fresh elections to restore democratic processes in Delhi.
Story

On October 5, 2023, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for conducting elections for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) standing committee, labeling them as illegal and unconstitutional. During a press conference, she referenced the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act of 1957, asserting that only the mayor has the authority to call for such elections. Atishi emphasized that the election process violated established laws, as the mayor is meant to preside over meetings, and the deputy mayor only in their absence. Atishi also pointed out that the Lieutenant Governor (LG) and the MCD Commissioner lacked the legal power to initiate these elections, yet the commissioner proceeded to follow the LG's orders. She expressed her discontent with the BJP's approach to governance, accusing them of undermining democracy and attempting to manipulate the electoral process. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had previously raised objections to the election, which took place despite their protests. In response to the situation, Atishi announced that AAP would file a petition in the Supreme Court to challenge the legitimacy of the elections. She criticized the BJP for obstructing the mayoral elections in the past and called for fresh elections to allow the public of Delhi to decide their representatives. Atishi's statements reflect a broader concern regarding the adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law in local governance. The controversy surrounding the MCD elections highlights ongoing tensions between AAP and BJP, with both parties vying for control and legitimacy in Delhi's political landscape.

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