Is Kejriwal the ‘Master of Announcements’ as L-G Saxena Claims?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) Delhi's Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena issued a pointed letter to former Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday, attributing the city's air pollution crisis to him. He referred to Kejriwal as a prime example of the phrase “Master of announcements and execution of none”.
The L-G also criticized AAP's “petty politics” and “propaganda war”, which he claims are detrimental to the current Delhi government's efforts to address longstanding issues.
Saxena accused Kejriwal of hindering essential projects such as Metro Phase-IV, the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), and the introduction of e-buses, all of which could have alleviated public transport woes and reduced air pollution. He stated, “If you had collaborated instead of confronting neighboring states and the Union government, Delhi wouldn't be facing this air pollution crisis today. Sadly, you have shown no inclination to work for Delhi.”
Recalling a conversation from 2002, the L-G mentioned Kejriwal's dismissive remark about pollution, suggesting it was a temporary media-fueled issue.
He lambasted Kejriwal and AAP leaders for failing to learn from their significant electoral loss in February, stating, “Since your defeat, you and your party have acted more like adversaries than a legitimate opposition. Your 11-year tenure has left Delhi with neglected roads, overflowing sewage, and mountains of garbage, all indicative of your governance failures.”
Highlighting ongoing civic infrastructure issues, including Yamuna pollution and a compromised drinking water network, Saxena criticized Kejriwal for prioritizing publicity over genuine action during his time in office.
He emphasized, “Your administration is a testament to governing through announcements and media campaigns without tangible results over 11 years.”
Saxena further accused the Kejriwal government of undermining political norms and accountability, pointing out that Kejriwal consistently avoided responsibility by not signing important documents.
The L-G also condemned the decision to cease weekly Cabinet meetings.
In the 15-page letter from Lok Niwas, it was noted that Kejriwal and his team often disparaged the L-G whenever he attempted to serve the public interest.
Saxena remarked that the matters discussed in the letter could have been addressed directly, but Kejriwal has not met with him since AAP's electoral loss, blocking his phone number to prevent further communication.