The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is set to approach the Supreme Court against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over an election dispute in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). BJP’s candidate, Sunder Singh, won the election for the standing committee’s lone vacant seat, a result AAP has termed illegal.
Atishi’s Stand Against BJP
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has raised strong objections to the election process, accusing BJP of conducting it in violation of the rules set by the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957. She pointed out that the mayor has the sole authority to decide the timing, location, and other details of the election, as per the law.
Illegal Election Process
According to Atishi, the BJP disregarded these laws, conducting the election without the involvement of Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi. She emphasized that this not only undermined the democratic process but also showed BJP’s disregard for legal norms. “The election was unconstitutional and undemocratic,” she said.
Boycott by AAP and Congress
Both AAP and Congress boycotted the polls, leaving BJP’s Sunder Singh as the only candidate to win uncontested. AAP’s Nirmala Kumari, who was supposed to compete, received no votes because her party refused to participate in the election, claiming it was carried out in an unjust manner.
Role of the LG and MCD Commissioner
Atishi criticized the involvement of the Lieutenant Governor (LG) in calling the election, stating that the LG does not possess the power to initiate such an election. She added that the MCD Commissioner, under the influence of the LG’s orders, conducted the election, which violated the rules of governance.
BJP’s History of Power Tactics
Referring to the BJP’s actions, Atishi accused the party of using questionable means to form governments in places where they have not won elections. She highlighted how BJP has, in the past, used similar tactics in states like Maharashtra and Goa, accusing the party of subverting democracy.
Operation Lotus and Alleged Tactics
Atishi’s allegations also touched upon BJP’s so-called “Operation Lotus,” where, according to her, BJP has historically pressured opposition leaders through investigative agencies like the CBI and ED. She pointed to instances from 2014 to 2024 where BJP allegedly undermined the electoral process to take control of state governments.
Moving to the Supreme Court
Atishi vowed that AAP would take the matter to the Supreme Court, filing a petition to challenge what they believe was an illegal and unconstitutional election process. She expressed confidence that the legal system would intervene to rectify the situation.
Heated Political Climate in Delhi
The ongoing conflict between AAP and BJP adds to the already tense political atmosphere in Delhi. With both parties constantly at odds, especially over governance and administrative issues, this latest episode is expected to lead to a protracted legal battle.
Future of MCD and Governance in Delhi
The outcome of this case in the Supreme Court could have significant implications for the governance of Delhi and the functioning of the MCD. AAP hopes that the court will side with them in their fight to uphold what they consider the proper democratic procedures.