Delhi L-G Saxena slams Kejri for ‘temporary CM’ remark

In a letter addressed to Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Monday expressed his disapproval of AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal’s remarks referring to her as a “temporary CM".

Saxena described the statement as a violation of democratic principles and an affront to constitutional values.

“A few days ago, when your predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal, publicly declared you as a temporary or stopgap chief minister in the media, I found this highly objectionable, and I was hurt by it,” Saxena wrote.

He said such remarks were not only an insult to Atishi, but also to the President of India and his role as the President’s representative in Delhi.

“The public explanation given by Kejriwal regarding the temporary or stopgap nature of your position has no constitutional provision and is a flagrant disregard for the democratic spirit and values enshrined in the Constitution created by BR Ambedkar,” he asserted.

The L-G lauded Atishi for her proactive approach in managing administrative responsibilities, contrasting her leadership style with her predecessor. “While your predecessor had no department under his charge and did not sign files, you have taken on the responsibility of various departments and have tried to address various administrative issues,” Saxena noted.

Saxena also took aim at Kejriwal for allegedly misleading public with claims about probes against Atishi by the transport and vigilance departments. Responding to the LG’s letter, CM Atishi defended the Delhi Government’s record and accused Saxena of politicising governance. “It is disheartening to note that your letter focuses on criticism rather than constructive cooperation,” she wrote.