Supreme Court Questions LG's Authority in MCD Poll Intervention

The Supreme Court has criticized the lieutenant governor's office for its haste and interference in the MCD's standing committee elections, questioning the use of Section 487 of the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act. This legal dispute involves several contentious issues that have a profound impact on democratic processes and governance in Delhi.

The Supreme Court raised concerns over the lieutenant governor's expedited actions in organizing the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) standing committee election. The court challenged the appropriateness of the intervention, highlighting Section 487 of the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, which empowers the LG to override municipal processes.

During a hearing, Justices P S Narasimha and R Mahadevan expressed skepticism about the legal basis for the LG's interference, asserting that democratic principles could be jeopardized by such actions. The court instructed LG VK Saxena to halt the electioneering until further notice.

The matter has prompted a significant legal debate on governance and electoral oversight in the capital, challenging the mayor's authority and the contours of the LG's powers. Political dimensions appear intertwined as the court scrutinizes the conflict between executive action and legislative authority.

(With inputs from agencies.)