The Rajya Sabha passed the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, generally known as the Delhi Services Bill. This action, proposed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is a slap in the face for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The bill, which deals with official transfers inside the Delhi government, has caused friction between the AAP and the Central Government.
The measure was passed by the Rajya Sabha on August 7, with 131 votes in favour and 101 votes against. On August 3, it was already passed in the Lok Sabha, marking a big step ahead.
The Rajya Sabha session saw heated arguments between AAP MPs and the Central Government, highlighting the sensitive nature of the measure.
Notably, Arvind Kejriwal launched a statewide protest against the Central Government’s ordinance. The Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party, and Congress all endorsed the AAP’s stance, emphasising the importance of the bill’s impact.
The bill repeals an existing ordinance on official transfers in the Delhi government that was enacted after the Supreme Court granted the Delhi government administrative powers in service matters.
As the Delhi Services Bill moves forward, it highlights the delicate balance of power between the Central and State governments that shapes the capital’s governance structure.