The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 has been passed in Lok Sabha. The Statutory resolution that was moved by opposition against Delhi services ordinance was defeated by voice vote in the House today.
"Services have always been with the Central government. SC gave an interpretation...From 1993 to 2015 no Chief Minister fought. There were no fights because whichever govt was formed their aim was to serve the people. There is no need to fight, if there is a need to serve. But if they want power they will fight..." Union Home Minister Amit Shah said before the Bill was passed by a voice vote.
The Delhi Ordinance Bill proposes to replace an ordinance giving the Centre control over Delhi's bureaucrats. The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday by Amit Shah. It replaces an ordinance promulgated in May that effectively overruled a Supreme Court order giving control of services in Delhi to the elected government in all matters except policing, land, and public order.
Earlier today, Home Minister Amit Shah, said that the Parliament has the right to make laws on any issue related to the National Capital Territory of Delhi. "This ordinance refers to the order of the Supreme Court which says that the Parliament has the right to make laws on any issue related to the National Capital Territory of Delhi," Amit Shah said. After Independence, even leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel and Dr Ambedkar opposed full statehood for Delhi, he added.
What is the Delhi Ordinance Bill?
The National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 introduced by the Centre, makes significant changes to the ordinance promulgated by it on May 19, a week after the top court rules that Delhi government has power over the administration and control of civil servants except in matters relating to public order, police and land.
One such notable difference which caused uproar by the state government, was the proposition to establish a permanent authority named "National Capital Civil Service Authority" to take decisions with respect to the postings and control of civil servants. The Bill seeks to confer the final authority to the Lieutenant Governor.
Another key change bestowed the Centre with power regarding appointments to statutory commissions and tribunals in Delhi. The AAP opposed the ordinance, gives greater power to the Centre in the government's working through the Lieutenant Governor -- which they have complained about for years.
