New Delhi’s Chief Minister-designate Arvind Kejriwal on Friday questioned the Centre’s decision to increase the prices of CNG just two days before a new government is to assume power.
Talking to the media outside his residence in Kaushambi, in neighbouring Ghaziabad, Mr. Kejriwal said he would examine the files and explore the possibility of rolling back the hike. Otherwise, he said, auto-rickshaw fares in the national capital may have to be revised. CNG prices were raised by Rs. 4.50 a kg on Thursday.
Reacting to reports that auto-rickshaw drivers were unhappy with the hike and planned to go on a strike, Mr. Kejriwal appealed them to give him two days’ time. “Auto rickshaw drivers have been associated with us for a long time… I will hold consultations with them and try to find a solution. If necessary, we cannot rule out the possibility of a hike in auto fares.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Kejriwal and all AAP MLAs will take the metro to reach Ramlila Maidan, the venue of the swearing-in. The Maidan, incidentally, is where he started the movement for the Jan Lokpal, along with his guru Anna Hazare.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung will administer the oath of office and secrecy to the Chief Minister-designate and six Ministers. It is the second time in the political history of the national capital that a government is taking oath at a public function. In 1996, BJP leader Sahib Singh Verma took oath at a ceremony in Chhatrasal Stadium.
Over 1,600 police personnel will keep a tight vigil at the swearing-in venue.
Invites Hazare
Mr. Kejriwal spoke to Mr. Hazare and invited him to his oath-taking ceremony. However, Anna’s attendance is doubtful as he has been saying for the last few days that he may not be able to make it due to ill-health.
A day before taking over as Chief Minster, Mr. Kejriwal went around his constituency and attended three public meetings.
Meanwhile, the AAP has released “proposal letter for pending/new works” through which common people can inform their MLAs and get their works done.