Controversy Erupts in Rajya Sabha Over Alleged Forged Signatures on Delhi Services Bill Proposal

| 08 August 2023

In an unexpected turn of events within the hallowed halls of the Rajya Sabha, a motion moved by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha has ignited a fierce controversy. According to informed sources, the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha may consider recommending the initiation of a First Information Report (FIR) following allegations of forged signatures on a proposal.

The focal point of this uproar revolves around the proposed sending of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, to a Select Committee, a move advocated by MP Raghav Chadha. It has come to light that the signatures of certain Members of Parliament (MPs) endorsing this proposal might have been fabricated. Among those who raised alarm over this matter are prominent figures including BJD's Sasmit Patra and AIADMK's M Thambidurai. These MPs vehemently asserted that their names were attached to the proposed select committee on the Delhi Services Bill without their explicit consent.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has not minced his words on the subject, branding the inclusion of MPs' names without their authorization as nothing short of a "fraud" perpetrated against the Parliament itself. He has further emphasized the necessity of conducting a thorough inquiry into this matter to preserve the sanctity of the parliamentary process.

The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which has become the epicenter of this maelstrom, recently managed to pass through the Lok Sabha. This accomplishment, however, was not without its own share of disruptions, as opposition parties staged a dramatic walkout during the proceedings.

The core purpose of the bill is to supplant an existing ordinance put forth by the Central Government that pertains to the transfers and postings of officials within the Delhi government. The passage of this bill could potentially usher in significant changes in the way administrative matters are handled in the capital city.

The ongoing controversy has thrown the Rajya Sabha into a state of turmoil, with political analysts and citizens alike awaiting the Chairman's decision on the potential FIR recommendation. As the echoes of this dispute reverberate through the corridors of power, the reputation of the parliamentary system and the AAP MP Raghav Chadha hang in the balance. The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of the proposed bill and could have far-reaching implications for the larger political landscape of the nation.