Rajya Sabha passes GNCTD bill, gives throne to Delhi L-G

New Delhi, March 25: Taking power from Arvind Kejriwal-led government the Upper house of India gives primacy to Delhi's Lieutenant Governor (L-G), by passing the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2021.

 

The discussions on the new legislation led to heated arguments and sparks flying in the Upper House several times on Wednesday. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Sigh declared the bill passed in a voice vote after a walkout by the opposition. Before the opposition walkout, the motion to consider the bill was passed with 83 'Ayes' and 45' Noes' and no abstentions.

 

 

The bill directly empowers the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and limits the elected government's powers in some respects. With that Delhi government will now have to seek the opinion of the lieutenant governor before any executive action.

 

 

The Bill also prohibits the Legislative Assembly from making any rule to enable itself or its Committees to (i) consider the matters of the day-to-day administration of the NCT of Delhi and (ii) conduct any inquiry in relation to administrative decisions. Further, any provision in force having the above-said effect will be void.

 

 

It curbs the Delhi Assembly's power to conduct its proceedings as per the rules of procedure made by it. It provides that the Rules made by the Delhi Legislative Assembly to regulate the procedure and conduct of business in the Assembly must be consistent with the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha.

 

Loksabha has already passed the bill on March 22.

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