AAP vs LG Flag-Hoisting Dispute: Atishi Criticizes Lieutenant Governor Over Independence Day Ceremony
Delhi’s General Administration Department Refuses Flag-Hoisting Authorization
On Tuesday, the General Administration Department (GAD) of Delhi announced that it cannot permit Delhi Minister Atishi to hoist the national flag on Independence Day in the absence of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is currently imprisoned in a money laundering case. The GAD cited established procedures for Independence Day celebrations and stated that any deviation could undermine the event’s sanctity.
Atishi Criticizes LG, Refers to Him as a ‘New Viceroy’
Following the denial, Atishi made a pointed remark, accusing Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, VK Saxena, of acting like a “new viceroy” who wishes to control the flag-hoisting ceremony. Atishi asserted that it is the prerogative of the elected government to unfurl the national flag, emphasizing that denying this right undermines the authority of Delhi’s elected representatives.
GAD Deems Kejriwal’s Directive as Legally Invalid
Earlier, Delhi Minister Gopal Rai had instructed the GAD to arrange for Atishi to hoist the flag, in line with Chief Minister Kejriwal’s wishes. However, GAD Additional Chief Secretary Navin Kumar Chaudhary rejected Rai’s directive as “legally invalid” and noted that Kejriwal’s communication to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on August 6 was not permissible under prison regulations. Chaudhary also mentioned that preparations for the Independence Day function were proceeding at the regular venue, Chhatrasal Stadium.
Pending Higher Authority Decision
Given that Kejriwal is in judicial custody, the GAD has sought guidance from higher authorities regarding the flag-hoisting ceremony. The matter remains unresolved as the department awaits further directions.
(With inputs from agency)
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