Good governance emerging out of “clean politics”, “dismantling barriers” between electors and their representatives, and an equal distribution of the fruits of development were promised to the Capital’s residents by Lieutenant-Governor Najeeb Jung on behalf of its newly elected government on Tuesday.
Aiming at the goal of a “safe and progressive Delhi that can hold its own amongst the best capital cities in the world”, the government would simultaneously “endeavour to be transparent, participative, and interactive”, said Mr. Jung.
However, while there was only a passing reference made by the government to the Jan Lokpal — which had been the pivot for the AAP Government’s resignation last year — its blueprint for the coming five years was completely silent on plans revolving around infrastructural development and absorption of contractual employees.
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“We will make every effort to establish the Jan Lokpal in Delhi...Whistleblowers shall be provided protection from harassment...towards devolution of power to the people, my government shall seek to legislate the Swaraj Act so as to enable the local communities to have a say on issues affecting their daily lives,” the L-G said in his address on the first session of the sixth Legislative Assembly.
Pushing for full statehood for Delhi, Mr. Jung said the provision of essential services like the law and order and affordable housing can happen only if agencies like the Delhi Police, MCD, and the DDA are brought under the control of the State Government.
“It is the intention of my government to push for full statehood for Delhi...The provision of critical public services such as law and order and low-cost housing would happen more smoothly if Delhi were accorded autonomy as a full-fledged State with greater control over these aspects,” Mr. Jung said.
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The L-G said the government would ensure last-mile connectivity in the public transit system and set up fast-track courts for speedy justice while the creation of a Mahila Suraksha Dal by redeploying members of the Home Guard and Civil Defence Volunteers would serve the purpose of making the Capital a safer place for women.
Freedom from “routine raids” would make traders feel unexploited and step forward to pay their taxes.
The government would lower tariffs of electricity and water, and would also pay special attention to both unplanned and resettlement colonies which had so far been deprived of the basic amenities.
The L-G said that the government would conduct a resource audit in the areas of public services. “We are convinced that Delhi has enough resources to transform it into a modern and prosperous city where every citizen finds a space for herself or himself,” Mr. Jung added.