New Delhi: In a significant development, the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was successfully passed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing legislative proceedings. The bill, which garnered attention for its proposed amendments, was presented by the Home Minister, Amit Shah, and subsequently secured approval through a voice vote.
The bill’s introduction and eventual passage in the Lok Sabha were accompanied by extensive debates and discussions among parliamentarians. Home Minister Amit Shah, while championing the bill, articulated his stance during the parliamentary session. Central to his argument was the assertion that Delhi, as the national capital, should retain a distinct constitutional status, rather than being granted full statehood.
#WATCH : Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023 passed in #LokSabha .#ParliamentMonsoonSession pic.twitter.com/qOpwhDk6uk
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) August 3, 2023
Citing historical precedent, Minister Shah referred to an earlier statement made by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The Home Minister highlighted that prominent figures such as Nehru, Sardar Patel, Rajaji, Rajendra Prasad, and Bhimrao Ambedkar had expressed opposition to the idea of providing Delhi with full statehood. He underscored that the bill’s foundation rested firmly within the parameters of the constitution and was formulated with the best interests of the people in mind.
During his address to the Lok Sabha, Minister Shah emphasized that his advocacy for the bill was devoid of any political motivations. He affirmed that the bill’s objectives were rooted in administrative and constitutional considerations rather than partisan interests. This assertion sought to reassure both fellow parliamentarians and the general public that the proposed amendments aimed at enhancing governance and ensuring effective administration in the National Capital Territory.
"The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023" is completely constitutional and has been made only and only for the welfare of the people of Delhi, we do not have any political objective: Union Home Minister @AmitShah in Lok Sabha pic.twitter.com/DgFNuJQmoy
— DD News (@DDNewslive) August 3, 2023
The passage of the Delhi Services Bill in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial milestone in the legislative process. As the bill advances further, it is expected to continue sparking conversations and deliberations among various stakeholders. The ensuing stages of the legislative journey will shed light on the implications of these amendments for the governance and functioning of Delhi as the nation’s capital.
The Lok Sabha’s approval of the bill underscores the government’s commitment to addressing issues related to Delhi’s governance structure while remaining anchored in the principles enshrined within the Indian Constitution. As the nation watches this legislative development unfold, the ensuing discourse will likely shape the trajectory of Delhi’s administrative landscape for years to come.
