RJD MP Jha Criticizes Delhi LG Over AAP Chief Minister Remarks

RJD MP Manoj Jha criticized Delhi LG Vinai Saxena, urging him to uphold the dignity of his constitutional position and not interfere in AAP matters. He supported Atishi's stance as temporary Chief Minister and defended Kejriwal's schemes, while calling out alleged BJP double standards.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Member of Parliament, Manoj Kumar Jha, on Tuesday sharply criticized Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, suggesting that he should respect the dignity attached to his constitutional position. Jha questioned the LG's apparent discomfort over matters internal to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), notably surrounding Atishi assuming the role of Chief Minister. Jha pointed out that many BJP chief ministers have downplayed their roles as merely formalities.

Jha further commented, "I sometimes question whether he (Delhi LG Saxena) realizes his role as a constitutional figure. You're the Lieutenant Governor; the post's dignity requires respect. Should I list how many BJP chief ministers have claimed to be mere front figures, with the real power lying elsewhere? This matter is internal to AAP." His comments followed a letter from the Delhi LG to Atishi, criticizing remarks by AAP's Arvind Kejriwal that referred to her as a "temporary Chief Minister," an action he deemed disrespectful to "constitutional values and office dignity."

In response, Chief Minister Atishi accused the Lieutenant Governor of engaging in 'petty politics' and acting as a BJP proxy. She urged him to transcend such actions and collaborate to fulfill governmental promises. Supporting schemes introduced by Kejriwal ahead of the 2025 Delhi assembly elections, including the 'Pujari and Granthi Samman Yojana,' Jha defended them as commitments, challenging the BJP to self-reflect on their 'curriculum vitae' before criticizing.

(With inputs from agencies.)