Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure,
3. Though the Constitution gives the Centre control over three subjects — land, public order, and police However, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act reorganised the powers and responsibilities of the Delhi Legislative Assembly and the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G), in favour of the latter. Critically analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The turf battle between the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) appointed by the Centre and the elected government of Delhi has a long and noisy history. The recently appointed L-G, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has, through his disruptive enthusiasm to meddle in the day-to-day governance in Delhi, set the cat among the pigeons.
Key Demand of the question:
To critically examine the changes introduced by the GNCTD Amendment Act, 2021.
Directive word:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the GNCTD Amendment Act, 2021 and the changes in introduced.
Body:
First, give a context of struggle between UT of Delhi and central government over the ears.
Next, examine the various changes – equates government with lieutenant governor, skews power against the elected government, day to day affairs will be affected, against the SC judgement in Union territory of Delhi vs Union of India case, 2018.
Suggest ways to ensure cooperation and coordination over conflict.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
