The Central Government’s laws in Delhi are causing problems for the people. During a press conference, Services Minister Atishi revealed that the Chief Secretary refused to accept an order for better coordination between the National Capital Civil Services Authority and Delhi government departments. The Chief Secretary cited the GNCTD (Amendment) Bill 2023 as the reason for his refusal.
Atishi criticized the Chief Secretary’s decision, stating that it gives unelected bureaucrats and the Lieutenant Governor power over how Delhi is run. She believes this goes against democracy and will hinder the work of the people in Delhi.
Atishi also explained the importance of democracy in India. The citizens have the power to elect their representatives, who then work for the public. Elections are held every five years to give people the opportunity to vote for their desired representatives.
However, the GNCTD (Amendment) Bill 2023 introduced by the central government undermines this democratic system. It grants decision-making power to unelected bureaucrats and the Lieutenant Governor instead of the elected government and the people. Atishi highlighted a specific section of the bill that allows bureaucrats to refuse Ministers’ decisions and the Chief Secretary to refuse to execute orders. This is seen as a significant blow to democracy.
The consequence of this bill became evident when Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar refused to accept a directive from the Services Minister. The Chief Secretary referenced the GNCTD (Amendment) Bill in a letter and claimed that the elected government does not have the power to decide.
Atishi stressed that according to the Indian Constitution, power lies with the people who choose their representatives. These representatives then form the Cabinet and have the authority to make decisions. However, this accountability is compromised when bureaucrats refuse to accept the decisions of elected officials.
Atishi expressed concern that the Chief Secretary’s rejection of orders is just the beginning. The GNCTD (Amendment) Bill 2023 allows secretaries to refuse Minister’s orders by writing lengthy letters. She emphasized that the power to make decisions should rest with the people, not unelected bureaucrats or the Lieutenant Governor.
