The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Delhi High Court delivered a stringent critique of the governance disruptions following the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, stressing that the CM’s role requires constant availability, especially in a critical hub like Delhi. This observation was made amidst ongoing complications in the city’s administration, particularly affecting educational services in MCD-run schools.
During a hearing on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the poor state of education in these schools, the court highlighted that nearly 200,000 students are lacking basic educational materials due to administrative standstills. It ruled that such governance failures should not obstruct the distribution of essential educational supplies to students, regardless of the ₹5 crore spending cap typically imposed on the MCD commissioner.
The court’s remarks underscore the broader implications of Kejriwal’s decision to remain in office despite his incarceration on money laundering charges since March 21. The bench pointed out the adverse effects of his absence on the day-to-day functioning of the government, particularly critiquing the delayed responses in educational support for MCD schoolchildren.
The High Court also criticized the AAP government and certain officials for focusing more on political power struggles than on public welfare, noting that these governance issues extend beyond mere administrative hurdles to affect fundamental rights under Article 21A of the Constitution.
This latest judicial rebuke follows previous criticisms aimed at the AAP government’s effectiveness and Kejriwal’s prioritization of personal over national interests, highlighting a significant governance crisis in the national capital amidst ongoing legal and political challenges.
