Lok Sabha Passes Delhi Government Amendment Bill; Opposition Stages Walkout

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha has successfully passed the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, following a day of intense debates and the subsequent walkout of opposition MPs. The bill aims to override a Supreme Court order regarding the control of bureaucrats in Delhi.

Home Minister Amit Shah defended the government’s stance, stating that the ordinance was in line with the Supreme Court’s assertion that Parliament has the authority to legislate on matters concerning the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed strong opposition to the bill, asserting that it would deprive the people of Delhi of their rights and lead to their enslavement. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader accused the government of trying to undermine the democratic rights of the citizens.

The contentious issue revolves around the control of Group-A officers in the National Capital Territory administration, with the AAP-led Delhi government challenging the center’s authority over the matter.

Previously, in May, the center had issued an ordinance that overturned a Supreme Court judgment, giving control of “services” in the NCT administration to the Delhi government. This ordinance has now been replaced by the newly passed bill.

The bill’s future will depend on its consideration in the Rajya Sabha and its potential enactment into law. The political landscape surrounding the issue remains contentious, with both sides firmly holding their positions.