For the sake of Delhi’s development, let’s hope the new L-G and the CM work together

In a surprise move a few days back, the Centre decided to replace Anil Baijal with Vinai Kumar Saxena, a seasoned bureaucrat working with Khadi Gramodyog, as the Lt Governor of Delhi. Baijal had resigned recently citing personal reasons. The tenure of the outgoing L-G was marked by several controversies and a strained relationship with the Delhi Chief Minister. The AAP Government maintained that the L-G was stalling its work and creating obstacles. It even accused him of working against the interests of Delhi’s citizens. The Delhi L-G is a Central Government appointee and reports to it. Matters had come to such a pass that the Delhi CM sat on dharna outside L-G's office. The issue reached the Supreme Court, which put its weight behind the L-G, saying the Delhi Government meant the L-G and not the elected Government. The constitutional amendment in 2019 dealt the final blow to the Chief Minister as it mandated the Delhi Government to work under the L-G. The new L-G has, however, struck all the positive notes after assuming office. He met the Delhi Chief Minister warmly and assured him of working together for the city’s development. Besides, he also said that he would be seen more on roads than in Raj Bhawan.

The Chief Minister has also shown a positive attitude towards the new L-G. Having said that, it will be interesting to note how they work together. After all, the L-G is a representative of the Central Government. Delhi, as well as general elections, are just two years ago and the BJP would not like to give any brownie points to AAP. Moreover, Delhi’s Government’s powers are limited and the files keep pending with the L-G for consent. For instance, the Government's plan to deliver ration at the doorstep has been stalled as the L-G and CM were at loggerheads. There have been numerous instances in which the L-G has deferred the decision at the Centre’s instance. At the end of the day, however, it’s all about the people of Delhi. They can do little about the Centre and the State Government working at cross-purposes. Let’s hope the new L-G can walk the talk and resist any anti-people moves by the very people who appointed him for the sake of development in Delhi.