In a huge setback for the Arvind Kejriwal government, the Delhi High Court on Thursday held that the L-G is the administrative head of National Capital Territory. It added that the AAP government’s contention that he is bound to act on the advice of Council of Ministers was “without substance”.
The decision comes after months-long turf war between LG Najeeb Jung and Kejriwal for the reins of Delhi. Here’s a recap of the many times the two sides have been at loggerheads.
February 2015: Jung appoints Shakuntala Gamlin as acting Chief Secretary of Delhi, Kejriwal asks her not to take charge.
March 2015: Kejriwal appoints Surender Singh Yadav as Additional Commissioner of ACB, Jung appoints ACB chief MK Meena.
In June, the Kejriwal government’s petition seeking to bar M K Meena from entering ACB office premises was turned down by Delhi HC.
July 2015: L-G Jung annulled all bureaucratic postings done by Kejriwal government, saying, “The power to appoint and to transfer, from steno to IAS officers, is with the L-G.”
August 2015: The Delhi government issues a notification on enhancement of circle rates. L-G office calls for the files saying that the AAP government did not ask for his permission before issuing it.
December 2015: The AAP government notifies Inquiry Commission to probe financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association. L-G Jung’s office questions the validity of the inquiry commission, Kejriwal alleges L-G trying to save his political bosses at the Centre.
June 2016: AAP demands arrest of Jung for showing special favour to the accused in the murder case of NDMC officer MM Khan.
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