Kailash Gahlot Resigns as Transport Minister of Delhi Over AAP vs L-G Dispute
Former Transport Minister of Delhi, Kailash Gahlot, resigns citing interference from the Lieutenant Governor
Questions raised on the constitutional validity of the LG's powers to interfere in the functioning of the elected government of Delhi
Kailash Gahlot, a prominent member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the former Transport Minister of Delhi, has resigned from his position.
Gahlot's resignation comes amidst an ongoing power struggle between the AAP government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena.
The AAP has accused the LG of overstepping his constitutional authority and interfering in the functioning of the elected government.
Reasons for Gahlot's Resignation
In his resignation letter, Gahlot cited the "interference" of the LG as the primary reason for his decision to step down.
Gahlot alleged that the LG had been "bypassing" the elected government and "directly issuing orders" to officials.
He further claimed that the LG's actions were "unconstitutional" and were "undermining" the authority of the elected government.
AAP vs LG Dispute
The AAP government and the LG have been at loggerheads over several issues, including the control of Delhi's bureaucracy and the implementation of various policies.
The AAP has accused the LG of being a "BJP agent" and of trying to "destabilize" the elected government.
The LG, on the other hand, has maintained that he is acting within his constitutional powers and is committed to ensuring good governance in Delhi.
Constitutional Validity of LG's Powers
The constitutional validity of the LG's powers in Delhi has been a subject of debate for many years.
The AAP government has argued that the LG is merely a "figurehead" and that the real power should lie with the elected government.
The central government, however, has maintained that the LG has significant powers and that he is responsible for ensuring that the administration of Delhi is carried out in accordance with the law.
Impact of Gahlot's Resignation
Gahlot's resignation is likely to further escalate the power struggle between the AAP government and the LG.
The AAP has already announced that it will hold a protest outside the LG's office and has vowed to continue its fight against what it calls the "BJP's dictatorship."
It remains to be seen how the central government will respond to Gahlot's resignation and whether it will take any steps to resolve the ongoing dispute between the AAP government and the LG.
