New Delhi:
Arvind Kejriwal's latest confrontation with Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung is likely to spiral considerably, courtesy a letter that declares Mr Jung is meant to function as the "government" of Delhi.
The letter - issued by Mr Jung's office to cancel the appointment of the new head of the Delhi Commission for Women, Swati Maliwal - says the "constitutionally valid and consistent definition of 'Government' is the Lieutenant Governor".
Mr Jung's missive says Mr Kejriwal cannot appoint the DCW head without his sanction.
The letter will escalate the bitter turf war between Mr Jung, who represents the Centre in Delhi and Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party government. It refers to precedents in the appointment of DCW chiefs in the past, but makes no mention of the elected Delhi government.
The BJP, too, reiterated that the Lieutenant Governor was the constitutional head of Delhi. Delhi BJP unit president Satish Upadhyay said, "Appointment of Swati Maliwal is illegal".
Ms Maliwal, 30, the wife of Aam Aadmi Party leader Navin Jaihind, was appointed by Mr Kejriwal four days ago. She took charge on Monday and earlier today, said, "Lieutenant Governor told me not to show up, said Delhi Commission for Women office will be locked."
Mr Jung has also sought an explanation from the principal secretary of Social Welfare Department, asking him why the notification for her appointment was issued in his name without his nod.
"You (Principal Secretary, Social Welfare) are requested to clarify/confirm whether all applicable rules and procedures were followed while processing this matter. The facts may
kindly be submitted to LG's office by July 28 for perusal of the Hon'ble Lt Governor," the LG's office said.
AAP has rejected allegations of nepotism made by the BJP and the Congress, saying its government picked the person best suited for the job.
Ms Maliwal replaced Barkha Singh, a member of the Congress, whose term ended this month.
Swati Maliwal serves as an advisor to Chief Minister Kejriwal on public grievances and handled his Janta Samwad or interaction with the people.