Delhi Services Bill Undergoes Changes, AAP Govt Braces for Showdown in Parliament

New Delhi: In a high-stakes political battle, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill is set to be tabled in Parliament this week, with significant changes to replace the contentious ordinance on services and officer postings in Delhi, as per reports.

The Supreme Court had previously ruled in favour of the Delhi government on May 11, granting it control over services in the national capital, except for matters related to public order, land, and police. However, the Centre had issued an ordinance on May 19, aiming to override the court's decision and strengthen the Lieutenant-Governor's authority in the city's administration. The ordinance also established the National Capital Civil Service Authority (NCCSA) for transfers and postings of Group-A officers.

The amended Bill seeks to address key controversies surrounding the ordinance. Notably, the provision that restricted the Delhi Assembly from enacting any laws relating to 'State Public Services and State Public Service Commission' has been dropped from the Bill.

Under the new provision, the Indian Express reported, any office-bearer or member of any authority, board, commission or any statutory body will now be appointed either by the Centre or based on recommendations of the National Capital Civil Service Authority (NCCSA). The NCCSA will be set up by the ordinance.

The clash between the Delhi government and the Centre over the control of services has been an ongoing power tussle. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had postponed the meeting of the NCCSA scheduled for July 28, adding to the suspense surrounding the tabling of the Bill in the Lok Sabha.

The amended Bill's introduction in Parliament is expected to intensify the political face-off between the ruling BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has sought support from various chief ministers and opposition leaders across the country to challenge the Centre's move.

The situation remains highly charged as Delhi awaits the outcome of the parliamentary debate on the amended services control Bill, which could have far-reaching implications for the governance and administration of the national capital.