Decoding the Delhi Services Bill: Struggle for Administrative Control
The upcoming Delhi Services Bill has become a major point of contention between Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Central Government. This bill aims to address the issue of administrative services and officer transfers in the national capital, Delhi. It seeks to replace an existing ordinance that was promulgated by the Centre on May 19, which had given executive powers to the Delhi government regarding service matters, including the transfer and posting of officers. Let’s delve into the bill’s key points and understand the AAP’s perspective regarding this legislation.
The Delhi Services Bill in a Nutshell
The Delhi Services Bill’s major goal is to create a National Capital Civil Services Authority, which will oversee proposing transfers and postings for all Group A officers (IAS) and officers of the Delhi, Andaman, and Nicobar Island Civil Services (DANICS) who work for the Delhi government. The management of the capital city will be significantly shaped by this body.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Establishment of the Authority: The proposed bill outlines the formation of the National Capital Civil Services Authority, with the Chief Minister of Delhi serving as its ex-officio chairman. The Chief Secretary and the Principal Home Secretary of Delhi will also be members of this authority.
Decision-Making: All decisions made by the authority will be based on a majority vote. The Lieutenant Governor (L-G) will make decisions based on the recommendations of the authority, and all its recommendations will be authenticated by the Member-Secretary.
L-G’s Authority: The L-G retains the right to request relevant documents related to Group A officers, and in cases of a difference of opinion, the L-G’s decision will be considered final.
Advisory Role: The authority will also provide guidance to the L-G on various matters, including transfers, postings, and vigilance.
Delhi’s Status as National Capital: The bill emphasizes that Delhi is the national capital, and its administration ultimately rests with the President. This is due to the presence of several critical national and international institutions and authorities in Delhi, including the Parliament, the Supreme Court, various constitutional functionaries, foreign diplomatic missions, and international agencies.
Balancing Interests: The bill aims to strike a balance between the nation’s and Delhi’s interests as a Union territory. It seeks to manifest the will of the people reposed in both the central government and the Delhi government.
Procedure and Accountability: The authority will be responsible for determining the procedure for imposing penalties and suspensions pending departmental inquiries for personnel appointed to services and posts. It will also establish the officer or authority to whom appeals or revisions lie, ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making.
The Opposition’s Perspective
The AAP has vehemently opposed the ordinance, alleging that the Centre has deceived the people of Delhi. They argue that despite the people choosing Arvind Kejriwal as Chief Minister in multiple elections, he lacks sufficient powers, while the L-G, who is not elected but appointed, holds substantial authority. The AAP sees this as a contemptuous act that would allow the Centre to exert control over Delhi’s affairs.
Efforts to Garner Support
Arvind Kejriwal, along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has been actively seeking support from leaders of non-BJP-ruled states and the Opposition to oppose the legislation. Their efforts aim to rally against what they view as an infringement on Delhi’s autonomy and the democratic mandate given to their elected representatives.
Conclusion
The Delhi Services Bill holds immense significance as it seeks to redefine administrative services and officer transfers in the national capital. The establishment of the National Capital Civil Services Authority and the roles assigned to key stakeholders indicate a delicate balance between the central government’s authority and the interests of Delhi as a Union territory. As the bill is set to be tabled in Parliament, it is crucial to consider the perspectives of both sides before determining its impact on Delhi’s governance and autonomy.