Following the mayoral election in the Delhi Municipal Corporation, the BJP is preparing to form ward committees and a standing committee; announcements regarding the elections are expected next week.
Delhi Election: After the mayoral election in the Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD), the process of forming ward committees and a standing committee is now underway. This election is crucial as it will determine whether the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) or the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will dominate Delhi's politics. The dates for these elections and nominations are expected to be announced next week, following which the MCD's most powerful standing committee, stalled for the past two and a half years, will be formed.
Formation of Ward Committees after the Mayoral Election
Following the Delhi Municipal Corporation mayoral election, elections for ward committees are now scheduled. These elections will determine the chairmen and deputy chairmen of the ward committees. The dates and nominations for these elections are expected to be announced next week. The mayoral election has already been completed, and the process will now move forward with the ward committee elections. Following the elections, the standing committee will also be formed, a matter that has been the subject of ongoing political maneuvering.
Formation and Power of the Standing Committee
The Delhi Municipal Corporation's standing committee is considered the most powerful committee of the corporation. It has the power to approve projects up to ₹5 crore, while projects exceeding this amount require its approval. Additionally, this committee plays a crucial role in everything from awarding tenders to agencies to approving layout plans. The delay in the formation of the standing committee for the past two and a half years has created significant political pressure.
Majority in Ward Committees?
Of the Delhi Municipal Corporation's 12 ward committees, the BJP holds a majority in 7, while the AAP holds a majority in 5. This situation remains unchanged despite the change in power following the mayoral election. It remains to be seen which party will prevail in the elections for chairmen and deputy chairmen of the ward committees. The results of these elections will shape the political direction of the corporation for the next two years.
Previously, the formation of the standing committee was also embroiled in controversy. When the 18th member, Sundar Singh, was elected, the mayor improperly adjourned the House meeting, leading the Lieutenant Governor to appoint the additional commissioner as the presiding officer. This decision was challenged in the Supreme Court by Shelly Oberoi (former mayor). This dispute resulted in a nearly two-year delay in the formation of the standing committee.
