Although lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung’s resignation was sudden, reportedly the Centre had considered replacing him months ago when his three-year term ended in June. However, he was allowed to continue in the power.
Jung’s three-and-a-half years’ term in office saw many clashes with CM Kejriwal over administrative control of Delhi. Several decisions of the AAP government were termed illegal by the LG for not following procedures.
The resignation of Jung as Lt Governor on Thursday caught Delhi’s political circle by surprise. The statement issued by Jung’s office did not cite any specific reason for his resignation. It just said, he would be returning to academics.
But there are several speculations going on with blame game continue among political parties. Kejriwal said he was surprised by Jung’s decision and spoke to him after the news became public. On the other hand, while the Congress termed it unceremonious, BJP claimed he was distressed with the AAP government.
Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta said a BJP delegation had met the LG on Wednesday over delimitation of municipal wards when Jung had expressed his displeasure with the Kejriwal government.
“Even then (yesterday) he was upset with the AAP government stalling work. But we did not foresee this. He told us that he was going a week-long leave. Delhi needed him,” Gupta said.
Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi said Jung has a meeting scheduled with him tomorrow. “The L-G met me day before yesterday but he did not give any indication of submitting his resignation. Another meeting of mine with the L-G is scheduled for Friday (today)… I have come to know about his resignation only through media,” Mehrishi said.
Delhi Congress chief Ajay Maken sought the response of the Centre over Jung’s “unceremonious exit” while party leader PC Chacko suggested the resignation might be due to BJP’s pressure.
“Was he removed to bring someone who is close to RSS? Was it done considering the upcoming municipal polls? Jung is an able administrator,” Maken told reporters.
“BJP never takes independent stand as far as the office of Governor is concerned and this is putting many a Governors in difficulty. May be this is behind the resignation,” Chacko said.
