The governance of Delhi has long been a contentious issue, marked by frequent tussles between the elected Chief Minister and the Central Government. Unlike other Indian states, Delhi holds a unique status as a Union Territory with a Legislative Assembly, which often leads to jurisdictional conflicts. This article explores the evolving power struggle, its constitutional background, recent developments, and its implications for democracy in India.
In This Article:
The Special Status of Delhi
Delhi is classified as a Union Territory with a Legislative Assembly under Article 239AA of the Indian Constitution. This status was granted in 1991 through the 69th Constitutional Amendment, giving Delhi a unique governance structure. While the elected government has control over subjects like education, health, and transport, critical areas like law and order, police, and land remain under the jurisdiction of the Lieutenant Governor (LG), who represents the Centre.
Key Points of Conflict
1. Control Over Bureaucracy
One of the biggest disputes between the Delhi CM and the Centre revolves around the control of bureaucrats. The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) Amendment Act, 2021, strengthened the role of the LG by requiring the elected government to seek approval before implementing decisions. This move was widely criticized as undermining the authority of the Delhi CM.
2. Delhi Services Bill and Its Impact
In 2023, the Centre introduced the Delhi Services Bill, further curtailing the CM’s control over civil servants. The bill handed decision-making power over services and transfers of officers to a panel dominated by Central Government representatives. The move was opposed by the Delhi government, arguing that it weakens democratic governance.
3. Judicial Interventions
The power struggle has frequently reached the Supreme Court. In 2018, the apex court ruled in favor of the Delhi government, stating that the LG must act on the aid and advice of the CM in matters outside police, land, and public order. However, subsequent legislative actions by the Centre have diluted the impact of this ruling.
4. Funding and Policy Implementation
Another contentious issue is financial control and policymaking. The Delhi government has often accused the Centre of withholding funds and obstructing welfare policies, such as subsidies and public health initiatives.
Political Ramifications
A Threat to Federalism?
India follows a quasi-federal structure where states have their own legislative autonomy. However, Delhi’s governance structure limits its independence, making it more susceptible to Central control. The repeated interventions by the Centre raise concerns about weakening federalism and undermining the electoral mandate of the Delhi government.
Implications for Governance and Development
The ongoing tussle has resulted in administrative paralysis, delaying key projects and public services. Frequent legal battles and political disagreements have disrupted governance, affecting Delhi’s residents.
Possible Solutions and the Road Ahead
1. Clearer Constitutional Guidelines
To prevent recurring conflicts, clearer demarcation of powers between the Centre and the Delhi government is needed through constitutional amendments or judicial clarifications.
2. Strengthening Cooperative Federalism
A collaborative approach, with structured mechanisms for dialogue between the Centre and the Delhi government, can improve governance efficiency and reduce conflicts.
3. Judicial Safeguards
A stronger judicial framework that prevents arbitrary interventions by the Centre can help ensure fair governance in Delhi.
The power struggle between the Delhi Chief Minister and the Centre is more than a political rivalry—it reflects deeper issues in India’s governance model. Striking a balance between state autonomy and central oversight is crucial for ensuring democratic governance in Delhi. Unless structural reforms are implemented, such disputes are likely to persist, affecting policy implementation and governance efficiency in the national capital.
By – Jyothi
