CM hopes for L-G nod to healthcare scheme

Govt’s proposals sent back to Raj Niwas

After Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal raised certain objections, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s proposals for doorstep delivery of services and free surgeries and tests at private hospitals and labs had been sent back to the Raj Niwas, the government said on Thursday.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said in a tweet, “I urge Hon’ble LG to approve these two schemes. Both are of significant public interest. People of Delhi would benefit a lot with their implementation.”

For reconsideration

Government spokesperson Nagendar Sharma said the files had been sent to the L-G’s office for reconsideration after a meeting between Mr. Kejriwal and Mr. Baijal on Wednesday. He added that the government hoped the schemes would be approved.

On December 26, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had said that the proposal for home delivery of government services, including applications for marriage certificates, driver’s licence and water connection, had been returned by the L-G.

Among other objections, the Mr. Baijal raised concerns over the safety of applicants, particularly women and senior citizens, if mobile sahayaks went to their homes to assist with applications.

On January 2, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that the L-G had returned the file for the ‘quality health for all scheme’. Under the scheme, patients of government hospitals can be referred to private hospitals for surgeries if required and the government would pick up the tab.