Delhi L-G nominates minister Gahlot to hoist tricolor on I-Day
What's the story
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has selected Home Minister Kailash Gahlot to hoist the national flag at the state-level Independence Day celebrations at Chhatrasaal Stadium.
This decision comes amid an ongoing tussle between Saxena and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the issue.
To recall, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is currently in jail, had recommended via a letter that Education Minister Atishi hoist the flag in his place.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Saxena's office had said it did not receive any communication from Kejriwal. Tihar Jail authorities informed the CM that his letter was an "abuse of privileges" under the Delhi Prison Rules and—therefore—was not forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor.
Additionally, the General Administration Department, which reports to the Lieutenant Governor, deemed the Chief Minister's directive "legally invalid."
It added that Independence Day and Republic Day are national events with "supreme Constitutional sanctity," warning that any "deviation" could "undermine its sanctity."
Political row
AAP slams L-G's decision as 'petty politics'
Notably, Atishi's rejection had ignited another political clash between the Aam Aadmi Party and Saxena, the Centre's representative in Delhi.
The ruling party criticized the move as "petty politics."
Atishi accused Saxena of obstructing an elected government, questioning, "What can be a bigger dictatorship than this? We have to see if BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] is standing with democracy or dictatorship?"
Reasoning
Why was Gahlot chosen for the flag hoisting?
In a written communication to Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, LG's Secretary Ashish Kundra said, "Lieutenant Governor is pleased to nominate Minister (Home), GNCTD, Kailash Gahlot to unfurl the National Flag at the State level Independence day celebrations at Chhatrasaal Stadium. Necessary arrangements may be made accordingly."
According to a statement from Saxena's office, Gahlot was chosen as the Delhi Police is in charge of the ceremonial march-past parade following the flag hoisting.