The controversial Delhi Services Bill has become law after President Draupadi Murmu gave her approval. The bill, which was approved by both houses of Parliament, is now in effect.
In May of this year, the Supreme Court ruled that the Delhi government has control over transfers and appointments of government officials in the capital city. However, the central government issued an ordinance the following day, establishing the National Capital Region Service Authority to make decisions on transfers, appointments, and disciplinary actions of Group A officers. The committee consists of the chief minister of Delhi as the chairman, the chief secretary to the government, and the home secretary as members.
The ordinance gives all the power to the central government, as the chief minister is the only member from the Delhi government. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government strongly opposed this ordinance.
To replace this ordinance, the central government introduced the Delhi Services Bill during the recent monsoon session of Parliament. Despite opposition from the India alliance, the bill was approved by both houses and has now become law with the President’s approval.
In addition to the Delhi Services Bill, the President has also approved other bills including the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, and Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Bill. The Data Protection Act aims to strengthen citizens’ digital rights and penalize companies that misuse personal information with fines ranging from Rs. 50 crores to Rs. 250 crores.
