Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has nominated Home Minister Kailash Gahlot to hoist the national flag at the state-level Independence Day celebrations at Chhatrasal Stadium. This decision comes as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who would typically lead the event, is currently in jail following his arrest by the CBI in connection with the alleged liquor policy case.
The nomination of Gahlot by the LG has the potential to spark further contention between Saxena and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Earlier, Delhi Minister Gopal Rai had directed the General Administration Department (GAD) to make arrangements for Minister Atishi to hoist the flag, following Kejriwal’s wishes. However, the GAD stated that it could not authorize Atishi to perform this duty, as the responsibility for the ceremonial march-past parade, which follows the flag-hoisting, falls under the jurisdiction of the Home Department, which is led by Gahlot.
Despite initial tensions, AAP welcomed the LG’s decision, stating that having an elected representative like Gahlot hoist the national flag upholds democratic principles and emphasizes the importance of the people’s mandate. However, earlier in the day, the rejection of Atishi as the flag-bearer by the LG led to a political row, with AAP accusing Saxena of engaging in “petty politics.” Atishi also made a veiled comment, referring to the LG as a “new viceroy” who sought to unfurl the flag himself.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor’s office, reflecting broader disputes over governance and authority in the capital.
