MCD Election Postponed Amid AAP Protest Over Mobile Phone Ban

The standing committee election of the MCD was adjourned due to AAP councillors' protest against a mobile phone ban. Directed by the Delhi LG, the MCD Commissioner urged immediate action. The election's outcome holds significant influence on Delhi's financial and administrative structure.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) election for its standing committee was postponed on Thursday after AAP councillors protested a mobile phone ban in the house. Following directives from Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar wrote to the Mayor and Deputy Mayor to expedite the election for the sixth committee member.

The commissioner urged immediate compliance with the LG's orders to conduct the election by 10 PM on Thursday. The LG's letter highlighted contingency plans if the Mayor or Deputy Mayor were unable or unwilling to preside over the meeting. Originally scheduled for 2 PM, Mayor Shelly Oberoi adjourned the election to October 5, citing the disruptions caused by AAP protests.

AAP councillors opposed the mobile phone ban during the election process. Tensions rose when Delhi Police tried to stop councillors from bringing phones into the assembly, resulting in significant protests and sloganeering outside the venue. AAP's Mukesh Goyal criticized the BJP and demanded unimpeded entry for AAP members. Goyal condemned the searches and expressed concerns over the treatment of AAP councillors, especially women. The election was aimed at filling a vacant spot in the 18-member standing committee, crucial for sanctioning key financial proposals that have been pending for 20 months. Overall, 17 out of 18 positions in the high-powered committee—essential for city governance—were previously filled, with AAP and BJP securing eight and nine seats, respectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)