Delhi LG Vs CM Atishi: Tension Escalates Over Alleged Demolition Of Religious Structures

A new political clash erupted on Tuesday between Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi over the alleged demolition of religious structures in the capital.

Atishi, in a letter to the LG, claimed that a religious committee, operating under his directions and approval, had decided to demolish multiple religious structures, including temples and Buddhist places of worship, which are especially revered by the Dalit community.

The letter, addressed to the LG, stated, "It has been decided by the Religious Committee, on your directions, and with your approval, to demolish multiple religious structures across Delhi. The list of religious structures includes temples and places of worship revered by the Dalit community. Demolition of these structures would hurt the religious sentiments of these communities."

Atishi urged the LG to reconsider the decision and avoid demolishing the temples and places of worship listed for removal.

LG's Office Denies Allegations and Accuses CM of Playing Politics

The LG's office quickly responded to Atishi's claims, categorically denying any plans to demolish religious structures. A statement from the LG's secretariat read, "Neither any temples, mosques, churches, nor any other place of worship are being broken or demolished, nor has any file to this effect come to us. The Chief Minister is playing cheap politics to divert attention from her and her predecessor CM's failures."

The statement further emphasized that the LG had instructed the police to maintain heightened vigilance to prevent vandalism for political gain, referencing the peaceful Christmas celebrations in the city as evidence of the security measures being strictly followed.

Atishi Responds to LG’s Remarks on 'Temporary CM’

The exchange between the Delhi LG and CM Atishi follows a prior dispute, in which the Lieutenant Governor objected to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's remark referring to Atishi as a "temporary Chief Minister." In a letter, the LG expressed his objection, calling it insulting not only to Atishi but also to the President of India and himself as her representative.

In her response, Atishi defended the democratic nature of the political system, saying, "It is a testimony to the democratic principles of our country that all elected members of the government are in fact temporary and remain in office only till the duration of their term." She also pointed out that the LG's letter seemed to focus on criticism rather than constructive cooperation, urging him to prioritize governance over petty politics.

The Political Drama Unfolds

The ongoing tension between Delhi’s LG and the AAP-led government has sparked controversy, with both sides accusing the other of politicizing administrative decisions. The issue of religious structure demolitions adds another layer to the complex relationship between the LG and CM, as both sides continue to spar over various governance matters in the run-up to future elections.

As this political drama unfolds, it remains to be seen how this clash will impact Delhi’s governance and the relationship between the Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor's office.