Give single command, if not statehood: Dikshit

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Sunday said her government would settle for single command for the national capital if full statehood is not granted by the centre.

"If you cannot grant us full statehood, please give us single command so that we don't have to run from pillar to post," Dikshit requested Congress president Sonia Gandhi who addressed an election rally in the capital.

Statehood for Delhi has become a poll issue which all major parties like Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party, Aam Aadmi Party have promised ahead of the Dec 4 polls.

The Congress manifesto promises full statehood for the capital.

Delhi became a state in 1992 under the system of diarchy where the elected government is given wide powers, except police and land and civic agencies that remain with the central government.

Dikshit has often blamed the "multiplicity of authorities" in the capital as an obstacle in the path of development.

Dikshit also stressed that a common economic taxation zone be created including the towns in the National Capital Region so that the entire north India can become prosperous.

The three-time chief minister promised e-governance in the capital, and urged the public to ensure that the progress of Delhi does not slow down.

She told people it would be their wrong decision if Congress is not voted to power again.

"If we take the wrong decision by removing the Congress government (in Delhi) then the problem will not only be faced by you but by the entire country.

"Delhi is not an ordinary city. It is the capital of our country. Whatever happens here, happens there. Be aware, and don't be misled by people," Dikshit said without naming the BJP.