Delhi Bus Marshals Reinstatement Dispute Escalates as AAP and LG VK Saxena Shift Responsibility

The conflict over the reinstatement and regularisation of bus marshals in Delhi intensified recently. The AAP government and LG VK Saxena are blaming each other for the situation. Civil defence volunteers (CDVs) were employed as bus marshals to ensure safety on public buses. However, they were dismissed last year, leaving many without jobs.

Lieutenant Governor Saxena criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for its management of the scheme. He stated that it is the council of ministers' duty to create a comprehensive policy with budgetary support for employing bus marshals. Saxena argued that forming a scheme without proper legal backing misled CDVs into thinking they had secured government positions.

Responsibility and Proposals

Saxena urged the AAP government to propose a framework for deploying personnel and creating posts through due process. He emphasised that the responsibility, both statutory and moral, for engaging CDVs lies with the council of ministers led by the chief minister. Saxena also pointed out that a structured cadre of home guards under Delhi Police's supervision could be used for bus safety.

In response to Saxena's note, AAP minister Saurabh Bharadwaj accused the LG of political motives aimed at undermining the scheme. Bharadwaj claimed that over 10,000 bus marshals, who were ensuring women's safety on buses, were dismissed at the BJP's request. He stated that despite repeated requests from the Delhi government to reinstate them, the BJP's LG has no intention of providing employment.

Political Accusations and Protests

The AAP maintains that this issue falls under the LG’s jurisdiction since it involves services and law and order. CDVs who previously served as bus marshals have protested multiple times, demanding permanent employment. The termination followed a proposal approved by the LG last year, suggesting they be considered for home guard roles instead.

The ruling party in Delhi argues that this shift ignores the contributions made by bus marshals and leaves them vulnerable. Last year, the LG approved terminating CDVs as bus marshals and recommended their consideration for over 10,000 sanctioned home guard posts. This highlights a need for better-aligned use of their skills and services.

Recently, 263 CDVs were absorbed into home guard services following directives from the LG. The ongoing dispute underscores a need for clear policies regarding employment and deployment of personnel in public safety roles.