Kejriwal Disrespected Ambedkar By Calling Atishi ‘Temporary CM’: Delhi LG Saxena

Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena criticized former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s remark calling Atishi a “temporary CM,” calling it a disrespect to Baba Saheb Ambedkar. Saxena also objected to Kejriwal’s “baseless statements” aimed at projecting CM Atishi in a negative light.

In a letter to Atishi, Saxena expressed his displeasure, saying, “I found it very objectionable and hurt when your predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal, publicly declared you as a temporary caretaker Chief Minister. This was not only an insult to you but also to the President of India and to me as her representative.” Saxena added that Kejriwal’s statement lacked constitutional backing and disregarded democratic values.

LG Accuses Kejriwal Of Disrespecting Atishi And Ambedkar

The L-G noted that Kejriwal’s definition of “temporary” or “caretaker” CM had no constitutional basis. He pointed out that it was a direct affront to the democratic spirit and the Constitution framed by Ambedkar. Saxena’s letter came ahead of Delhi’s Assembly elections, highlighting rifts within the ruling AAP, with Kejriwal’s treatment of his colleagues under scrutiny.

In his letter, Saxena also expressed sympathy for CM Atishi, who was reportedly embarrassed by public notices issued by two departments warning people about Kejriwal’s unauthorized announcements of non-existent schemes—Mahila Samman Yojana and Sanjeevani health scheme for the elderly. The L-G called this an “unprecedented development” that must have unsettled her.

Saxena also criticized Kejriwal for making claims about investigations into CM Atishi. Kejriwal had allegedly suggested that the Transport Department and other agencies were probing Atishi with the intent to jail her. Saxena wrote that such statements suggested Atishi was unaware of the activities of the departments working under her.

Despite praising Atishi on several occasions, the L-G had previously denied her permission to hoist the national flag on Independence Day, despite Kejriwal recommending her for the role. Atishi had taken oath as Kejriwal’s successor in September.

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