AAP govt holds meeting of bureaucrats amid standoff with Jung

AAP bureaucrats were told to not 'blindly' follow orders from the Lt Governor

Delhi Government today told its bureaucrats not to "blindly" follow Lt Governor Najeeb Jung's orders and asked them to discharge their duties in line with constitutional provisions, without any fear or apprehension.

Chairing a nearly three-hour-long meeting called by the government following a stand-off with LG on appointment of bureaucrats, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia explained to senior officials various provisions in the Constitution, the Government of NCT of Delhi Act and Transaction of Business of the Delhi Government.

The meeting was attended by Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and heads of various departments.

A senior official said there was a healthy exchange of views in the meeting.

Sources said Sisodia told the bureaucrats about his Government's views on the tussle with the Lt Governor, maintaining that it was committed to follow the provisions of the Constitution and other laid down norms in ensuring efficient governance and exhorted them to work with full enthusiasm.

"The officials were told that they should not follow the (LG's) orders blindly," said the sources.

A number of bureaucrats also aired their views on the rules and regulations and how the government should try to resolve the issue.

The meeting came a day after both Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lt Governor Najeeb Jung took their bitter fight to President Pranab Mukherjee, accusing each other of violating the Constitution and overstepping their respective jurisdictions.

In a directive on Monday, Kejriwal had asked the bureaucrats including the Chief Secretary to first consult with him and other Ministers about any communication from the LG before acting on such directions.

The Government had said the meeting with the bureaucrats has been called to have a "correct and coherent understanding of the Constitutional provisions and other norms in handing administrative affairs".