“Aam Aadmi Party may shout about austerity but contrary to their claims, Delhi government has formed a jumbo ministry with appointment of 21 MLAs as parliamentary secretaries. Taking notice on violation of norms, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has termed the appointment as unconstitutional.”
After taking charge of the Delhi government, Arvind Kejriwal appointed 21 of its MLAs as parliamentary secretary with an aim to reward them by offering lucrative position. Three parliamentary secretaries were attached with each minister. Kejriwal might have tried to appease them by offering plum position but this move has now come under the scanner of independent agencies after receiving the notice from Election Commission & Delhi High Court respectively and now Lieutenant Governor has slammed Arvind Kejriwal for their appointment.
Unconstitutional posts
Najeeb Jung, Lieutenant Governor has termed the appointment of 21 parliamentary secretaries as ‘unconstitutional’ and went on to state that they fear the risk of getting disqualified. Jung explained that office of parliamentary secretary is defined as an office of profit and Delhi can have only one parliamentary secretary, attached to the office of chief minister.
Notice by Election Commision
The Election Commission (EC) had earlier issued notices to 21 Aam Aadmi Party MLAs. They were asked to explain the validity of their appointments by submitting affidavits and relevant documents.
The notices were issued after a petition was filed by an NGO stating that the appointment was made in violation of mandatory norms as these post falls under the category of profit.
Notice by Delhi High Court
Delhi High Court had earlier slammed AAP government for violation. It is noteworthy that Delhi High court had earlier challenged AAP government’s move and sent to a notice to the government.
Rashtriya Mukti Morcha, an NGO had petitioned the Delhi High Court, stating that 21 MLAs appointed as parliamentary secretaries enjoy the status and perks of ministers.
