What is the Delhi Services Bill about?
The Delhi Services Bill aims to set up a new body called the National Capital Civil Service Authority (NCCSA). This body will get to decide the appointments and postings of the government officials who work under the Delhi government.
The Chief Minister of Delhi will be the head of the NCCSA. Other important people like the Chief Secretary and Principle Home Secretary will also be part of the team. They will also be able to check and ensure that government officials are doing their jobs well.
However, the final decisions on all matters related to the NCCSA and the functioning of Delhi’s Legislative Assembly will be taken by the Lieutenant Governor.
After the Lok Sabha agreed to the Bill, the Rajya Sabha also passed it with the support of 131 members. Once the President signs it, the Bill will become law.
Why is the Delhi Government opposing this Bill?
The national capital city of Delhi has a unique political set-up. It is a union territory with an elected government. Since it is neither a complete state nor a union territory, the Consitution has put limits on what the Delhi government can do. For example, the Delhi government cannot make laws on police, public order, and land.
Due to these special rules and regulations, there have been many disagreements between the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister on how to govern Delhi.
But the Delhi Services Bill has made some big changes! It has ended up giving more power to the Lieutenant Governor. The Chief Minister, Mr Arvind Kejriwal, doesn't like this Bill. He thinks it takes away their government's power.
The Parliament has the right to change or cancel any law passed by the government of union territories. It can also make laws for all union territories. Mr Amit Shah, India’s Home Minister, believes this Bill will make Delhi's government better and fairer for the people.
