Supreme Court’s Decision on Delhi’s Aldermen: AAP’s Sanjay Singh and Congress’ Sandeep Dikshit React

The Supreme Court has upheld the decision that allows Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor (LG) to nominate 10 aldermen to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). The bench, including Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices Narsimha and JB Paridwala, stated that the LG must act according to the statutory mandate, not the advice of the Delhi government.

Reactions from AAP

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh expressed his disagreement with the decision. He said, “I think this decision is a big blow to the country’s democracy and that by bypassing the elected government, all the powers will be given to the LG. I think this is not good for the democracy and the Constitution of India. I want to say with due respect that we completely disagree with this decision.” Singh added that the decision goes against the spirit of democracy and the court’s comments during the hearing. He mentioned that AAP would strategize their next steps after reading the full order.

Reactions from Congress

Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit criticized AAP, stating that the Supreme Court had correctly interpreted the law, which gives the LG the right to appoint aldermen. He accused AAP of not understanding the law and lying about the issue. Dikshit said, “The SC looked at the law and it was made clear that the right to appoint the aldermen is with the LG. You have always fought with the LG, you should read the law only after sending the names of the Aldermen. This only shows that either you are illiterate, or you are lying.” He further added that AAP has received a “slap” from the Supreme Court with this judgment and questioned their credibility.