New Delhi (Agency): The Supreme Court has intervened in the ongoing disagreement between Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena over the appointment of the new chairperson for the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC). The court has urged both parties to hold discussions and come to a consensus on the names of former judges who could head the regulatory body.
Recognizing the importance of rising above “political bickering,” the bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices P S Narasimha and Manoj Misra emphasized the need for the CM and LG to prioritize the smooth functioning of the commission. The court will revisit the issue on Thursday and requested the counsel for the city government and the LG to inform Kejriwal and Saxena about the court’s directive.
The appointment of the DERC chairperson has become a contentious issue, further fueling the ongoing power struggle between the Delhi government and the central government. The apex court had previously expressed its intention to examine the constitutional validity of a provision in the Centre’s ordinance governing such appointments.
In the interest of resolving the dispute and ensuring effective governance, the Supreme Court’s intervention aims to facilitate a constructive dialogue between the CM and LG. By urging the constitutional functionaries to rise above political differences, the court hopes to pave the way for the appointment of a suitable candidate who can lead the DERC effectively.
As the issue continues to unfold, the court’s directive serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and consensus-building in matters of public administration. The ultimate goal is to ensure the smooth functioning of regulatory bodies and uphold the interests of the people of Delhi.