Somnath, Sheila, Maken say govt has no power to restrict

NEW DELHI: Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee described the Centre’s directive to the Delhi Assembly “really unusual”, saying only t he speaker can decide the questions to be taken up in the House proceedings.

The Union law ministry, in a communication through the L-G office, has asked the Delhi Assembly speaker Ram Niwas Goel not to admit questions related to reserved subjects such as vigilance and law and order.

Chatterjee said, “Undoubtedly, the speaker has got the power to admit whatever question he feels is important and should be answered.” He said the speaker can also interpret the rules of procedure as per his own understanding.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a senior law ministry official justified the move. “The subjects under reserved category are for Parliamentarians. If the assembly members ask questions on reserved subjects, then Parliament becomes subordinate to assemblies.”

The L-G office did not comment on the issue.

Former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit told Hindustan Times that such an issue never cropped up during her 15 years in the government. “If this is true then, it really would weaken the assembly,” she said.

“In Delhi, police is with the L-G or Centre. But, during our time we discussed law and order situation in the House. In fact, the Delhi Police Commissioner was even summoned to the House proceedings, and he did come,” Dikshit said.

Delhi Congress chief and former speaker of Delhi Assembly, Ajay Maken said the move will affect governance in Delhi.

Former Delhi Vidhan Sabha secretary SK Sharma said,“the Centre’s move would, no doubt, weaken the Delhi Assembly and the speaker’s powers. It is wrong. It is an elected government. But, there should also harmony between the CM and the home ministry. Lack of harmony is causing friction,” Sharma said.