No beacon-fitted cars for ministers, officials: Kejriwal

Taking reins of power on Aam Aadmi plank, the new government in Delhi decided to shed vestiges of VIP culture by dispensing with security and red beacon cars for ministers and officials and promising action on free water supply and cutting down of power rates in the next few days.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who met officials of various departments shortly after taking oath of office and secrecy, also promised to get back on the issue of the steep increase in the price of compressed and piped natural gas effected on Thursday.
He also promised there will be no witch-hunt against officials who work honestly and in people's interest.

"No minister or official in Delhi government will be allowed to use red beacon," Kejriwal said after chairing the first cabinet meeting.
The cabinet also decided that no Personal Security Officer and escort vehicle will be be provided to any official.
"Security is to be allowed based on threat perception," he said.

In its manifesto, AAP had promised to end VIP culture in Delhi.
Later in the afternoon, the new Chief Minister held meetings with officials from various departments including Power, Transport, Vigilance and Delhi Jal Board.
"I have asked officials to work out. By Monday, I will be able to say something," Kejriwal said on his promise of supply of 700 litres of water free of cost.

"On power, we will be able to say something by Tuesday or Wednesday", he told reporters.