PM, LG have sought file related to power subsidy: Kejriwal

New Delhi, Aug 28: Making a string of fresh allegations, Chief Minister Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said Lt Governor Najeeb Jung has sought the file related to power subsidy on the instructions of the Prime Minister, even as he cautioned against a hike in power tariff in the city.

Addressing a gathering at outer Delhi's Kirari, he also expressed apprehension that his government's proposal to increase minimum wages by up to 50 per cent could be shot down by Jung and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He exhorted people to "gherao the Prime Minister" if any such step is taken.

Separately, in a series of tweets, Kejriwal said plans were afoot to remove DCW chief Swati Maliwal who, he claimed, will be "arrested" soon for her "good work".

"In elections, we had promised to cut power tariff by half and provide free water. We fulfilled our promises. Sadly, Modiji has summoned the files related to power and water by phoning the Lt Governor.

He is threatening to increase power tariff in Delhi. "I challenge Modiji that if he does the same, the people of Delhi will give him a befitting reply. PM is creating hurdles by telephoning the LG," Kejriwal said, adding that Jung has already called for the files even as he wondered if the subsidies will be withdrawn.

He also accused the Centre of not clearing the Delhi government's proposal to regularise hundreds of unauthorised colonies in the capital. Kejriwal said if the proposal is approved, such colonies will be regularised within 24 hours. "We cannot wait for Modiji's nod.

I have directed my ministers to carry out development works in all unauthorised colonies which include construction of roads, laying of water pipelines etc," he said. The Chief Minister said officials involved in flagship projects of the AAP government such as mohalla clinics and construction of school buildings were being transferred by the LG.

"The way the Centre is creating hurdles, it has never happened in the Indian history. I and Manish Sisodia had requested the LG not to transfer officers involved in projects to set up mohalla clinics and construction of school buildings till March 31," he said.

"I appeal to people of Delhi to call up their relatives, family members residing in other states to work towards defeating Modiji across the country," he said.

PTI