Instances in the past have witnessed clashes between the LG’s office and the AAP administration regarding the attribution of accomplishments. Saurabh Bharadwaj, a Delhi minister, asserted on Monday that the Constitution does not grant LG V K Saxena the “authority to approve funds” for projects within the capital city. This declaration comes amidst a verbal feud between the BJP and AAP concerning the financing of projects for the G20 Summit.
In response to Bharadwaj’s statement, Saxena mentioned that if someone desires to claim recognition for his efforts, they are welcome to do so. He pointed out that if this were the case, it would imply that the central government is executing commendable work.
On Sunday, the BJP asserted that the central government funded the rejuvenation of Delhi for the G20 Summit and accused the ruling AAP administration in the capital of wrongfully assuming credit for it.
In retaliation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) retorted, expressing surprise at the fact that the “BJP had to appropriate the developmental endeavors of the city government as its own.”
Bharadwaj made these statements when questioned by journalists about the BJP’s allegations, subsequent to his visit to the historic Town Hall from the British era and Ghalib ki Haveli in the Walled City.
Presenting a roster of initiatives, the minister conveyed that the Public Works Department (PWD) had enhanced 89 roads, involving activities like cleansing, tree planting, and resurfacing.
He emphasized, “This money belongs to the Delhi government, and by extension, the taxpayers. The Center or LG has not provided any funds. There seems to be a misconception that these funds originate from the LG.”
Referring to the Constitution, he argued, “Demonstrate any clause in the Constitution or legal document that empowers the LG to sanction even a solitary rupee.”
“A PWD engineer can authorize ₹20 lakh since they are accountable to the department, which in turn is answerable to the minister, who is accountable to the Vidhan Sabha, which is accountable to the public. LG sahab has no responsibility. The Constitution has not vested him with authority. He need not become vexed with us. He can examine our roads. Even the prime minister and home minister can inspect our roads. We have no objections,” the minister expounded.
Bharadwaj surmised that the central government was “diminishing itself” by discussing financial matters.
Later in the day, LG Saxena reacted to Bharadwaj’s declarations during a DDA event.
“I don’t intend to offer extensive commentary on this. But I would only like to convey that we shall persist in our duties. If someone desires to assume credit, they are free to do so. I find solace in the idea that if my actions prompt someone to claim recognition, it signifies that our efforts are noteworthy,” he conveyed to PTI Video.
Prior instances have also witnessed confrontations between the LG’s office and the AAP administration regarding the appropriation of accolades for projects.
