New Delhi: It might not be easy for Arvind Kejriwal to implement the ideal Janlokpal Bill he has drafted as it is tied to the full statehood of Delhi. Kejriwal wants the power to probe officials of Delhi police and municipal corporations that come under direct control of Central government.
According to the reports, the Union Home Ministry is studying the 33-page Delhi Janlokpal Bill, 2014 that was introduced by Kejriwal during his last stint as CM. The legislation directly contradicts with Central Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act and NCT Act, 1991.
There are two other issues identified by MHA in the current form of Janlokpal Bill. One is the provision for it to even act suo-moto and initiate inquiries in absence of a written complaint, a provision that is missing from central Bill.
Ministry officials said that one provision that is missing from the Delhi Janlokpal legislation is a chance to be offered to the public servant in question to offer an explanation so that the Lokpal can determine whether there exists a prima facie case for probe. This provision exists in the central Bill.
The authority to probe Delhi Police, DDA and MCDs officials is only possible if these bodies report to state government. The situation won't change unless Delhi gets full statehood. Full statehood for Delhi has already been demanded by Arvind Kejriwal and his Aam Aadmi Party.
This would require massive amendments to the NCT act of 1991. Giving a full statehood to Delhi means central government would loose control over land and law & order, something it is not willing to give up.
AAP leaders are adamant that the new government would not compromise with the Janlokpal Bill that was tabled last year. Kejriwal resigned as chief misister when he failed to get the Lokpal Bill passed in the assembly during his last inning. This time the government has a huge majority and can put a pressure on the central government.
The Bill would need LG's nod before it is tabled in the assembly. Even if LG gives the nod and assembly passes it, the bill will need president's consent to become a law. Before going before the President, it will go to MHA where it will be studied for its validity and accordance with the central law and constitution. That means the bill would be at the mercy of central government.
