In a highly controversial move, Delhi's Aam Aadmi Party has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of forcing Chief Minister Atishi out of her new official residence just days after her appointment. While the AAP alleges that Lieutenant Governor Vinai Saxena acted on behalf of the BJP, sources from the Lieutenant Governor's office have dismissed these claims. This incident has sparked a new political fire in the capital and highlights the ongoing power struggle between the AAP-led Delhi government and the BJP-controlled central administration.
Delhi: AAP-BJP Power Struggle Reignites Over Atishi's Residence
In a recent development, Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of forcing Deputy Chief Minister Atishi out of her new official residence just days after she was appointed. This incident has reignited the ongoing power struggle between the AAP-led Delhi government and the BJP-controlled central administration.
Background
The conflict dates back to the 2020 Delhi Assembly elections, where the AAP won a landslide victory. However, the BJP, which governs the central government, has repeatedly clashed with the Delhi government over various issues, including the implementation of policies and the control of administrative powers.
The Residence Controversy
On June 29, 2023, Atishi was appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi. She was allocated a new official residence at 6 Bhagwan Das Road, which was previously occupied by the Lieutenant Governor (LG).
Just five days later, on July 4, 2023, the LG's office informed Atishi that she must vacate the residence by July 8, 2023. The AAP alleges that this action was taken under pressure from the BJP-led central government.
AAP's Allegations
The AAP has accused the BJP of trying to "humiliate" Atishi and "undermine" the Delhi government. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj alleged that the BJP was using the LG's office to "settle political scores."
BJP's Denial
Sources from the LG's office have dismissed the AAP's allegations, stating that the decision to ask Atishi to vacate the residence was based on administrative grounds. They claim that the residence was not originally designated for a Deputy Chief Minister and that Atishi's occupation of it was "irregular."
Political Firestorm
The incident has sparked a new political firestorm in Delhi. AAP leaders have staged protests and accused the BJP of "autocratic behavior." The BJP, on the other hand, has defended its actions, saying that the rules must be followed.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Atishi asked to vacate her residence? A1: The LG's office claims that the decision was based on administrative grounds, as the residence was not designated for a Deputy Chief Minister. AAP alleges political pressure from the BJP.
Q2: What are the underlying causes of the conflict between AAP and BJP? A2: The conflict stems from the differing political ideologies and the division of powers between the Delhi government and the central government, which is controlled by the BJP.
Q3: What are the potential implications of this incident? A3: The incident could further escalate the ongoing power struggle between AAP and BJP, potentially leading to administrative hurdles and political instability in Delhi.
Q4: What is the legal basis for the LG's decision? A4: The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) Act gives the LG certain powers over administrative matters in Delhi, including the allocation of official residences.
Q5: What are the next steps in this controversy? A5: The AAP is likely to continue protesting and seeking legal recourse. The BJP is expected to defend its actions and the LG's decision. The outcome of this dispute remains to be seen.
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