CM’s move to run govt. from jail hindered people’s welfare, deferred decision on crucial issues: BJP

Vijender Gupta criticizes AAP for running government from jail, demands answers on corruption, governance, and delays in crucial decisions.

The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Delhi Assembly, Vijender Gupta, attacked the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday, saying its move to run the government from jail has taken a toll on people’s welfare and deferred decision on crucial issues.

He also posed 10 questions to Finance Minister Atishi and sought a response within 24 hours, saying her silence would give credence to the allegations that the ruling party is deeply entrenched in corruption.

Mr. Gupta also demanded immediate Assembly poll in Delhi, days after his party sought the dismissal of the AAP government from President Droupadi Murmu over a “constitutional crisis”, which it said stemmed from Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest in corruption cases.

The BJP leader’s remarks drew a sharp response from AAP, which reiterated the accusation that the BJP is trying to seize power in Delhi through the “backdoor” by imposing President’s Rule.

AAP said the BJP is levelling the allegations “out of frustration”. “Their so-called liquor scam conspiracy has fallen flat in the court,” the ruling party said in a statement.

However, Mr. Gupta asked, “How many Cabinet meetings have been held since the CM’s arrest over five months ago? How many government decisions has he taken from jail?”

The LoP said no meeting of the National Capital Civil Services Authority could be convened due to the CM’s incarceration, resulting in a delay in appointments to crucial posts. He also asked why the government had failed to constitute the Delhi Finance Commission till now, violating constitutional norms.