New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently introduced the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 in the Lok Sabha, aiming to give more power to the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi.

In his speech, Shah criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi, stating that it has failed to fulfill its promises to the people. He also accused the AAP of being more interested in forming alliances with other parties than working for the betterment of Delhi and its citizens.

Shah emphasized, “The people of Delhi have given a clear mandate to the AAP, but the party has not lived up to its promises. They seem more focused on forming alliances than serving the people of Delhi. I urge the AAP to prioritize Delhi’s interests over alliances.”

The AAP has refuted Shah’s claims, arguing that the bill is an attempt by the central government to undermine the elected government in Delhi. They have asserted that they will not let the bill pass in Parliament.

The bill is likely to face opposition from other political parties in Parliament. The outcome will determine whether the government can successfully pass the bill.

Meanwhile, Shah’s criticism of the AAP is expected to add fuel to the ongoing political rivalry between the two parties.

In support of the bill, Shah cited India’s founding fathers, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, C Rajagopalachari, Rajendra Prasad, and BR Ambedkar, who were against granting Delhi the status of a full state.

The bill is centered around control of services in Delhi, and it empowers the central government to establish rules related to the administration of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeks opposition support against the bill, especially in the Rajya Sabha, where the government lacks a majority. However, with the support of key regional parties not aligned with the INDIA opposition bloc, the bill is expected to pass comfortably in the upper house.