Delhi Minister Atishi Declares LG Saxena’s Order on DDCD Members Invalid

On Tuesday, Delhi Minister Atishi announced that the order from Services and Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to remove non-official members of the Dialogue and Development Commission of Delhi (DDCD) is null and void due to a lack of jurisdiction.

Atishi’s Statement

Atishi stated, “Prima facie, it is observed that the LG is not vested with any jurisdiction or authority to issue an order to rescind the engagement of these non-official members. The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and the Services Department have no power or authority over the non-official members of DDCD in any manner whatsoever, be it in respect of their appointment or removal. They do not exercise any supervisory control over the DDCD or its non-official members.”

She further added, “The three non-official members have more than adequately discharged the faith and confidence reposed in them by the Delhi Chief Minister and have rendered superlative service during their tenure in DDCD over the past 4 years.”

Response to LG’s Order

Atishi declared the Service Department’s order dated June 27, 2024, and the LG’s Order as null and void, restoring the status quo as of June 26. She warned that any action under these orders without the approval of the Minister (Planning) would be deemed illegal and could result in disciplinary action.

Background

This announcement follows LG VK Saxena’s approval of the temporary dissolution of the DDCD, alleging that its creation was to extend financial benefits to certain political persons. The Delhi government termed Saxena’s decision “illegal, unconstitutional, and without jurisdiction” and plans to challenge it in court. The DDCD, established in February 2015, falls under the jurisdiction of the Delhi Chief Minister.