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Files sans sign, undersign: Delhi LG flags another lapse of CM

In this connection of flouting of laid down procedures and rules of not signing files before sending them to the L-G office, Lt. Governor V.K. Saxena had written to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on August 22.

Files sans sign, undersign: Delhi LG flags another lapse of CM

Photo: IANS

In the latest move that could prove a fresh blow to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on his functioning, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena flagged another violation of laid down procedures. In a letter to the chief minister, Saxena pointed out dispatching and returning files or paperwork to the LG with no undersign or signature on them.

Reports suggest that the LG Secretariat returned over 45 files to the CM as they did not carry his signature. The files were instead signed by the staff of the Chief Minister’s Office. These files included paperwork related to the national capital’s education department and Waqf Board, amongst others.

Since the practice amounts to the flouting of rules, as directed by the LG, the chief minister was asked to sign every file to ensure smooth and effective governance. The LG has also asked the chief minister to introduce the e-office system, prevalent in most government offices, so as to enable the seamless movement of files.

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In what categorically underlines CM Arvind Kejriwal’s approach to work, he has been sending files for consideration, opinion, and approval of the L-G Saxena without affixing his signature on the same. Experts have said that Kejriwal’s attitude is a stark contrast to the past when such files were duly signed by chief ministers between the years 1993 and 2013.

These files, often marked by his junior officers to the LG Secretariat, contain notes to the effect, “CM has seen and approved” and “CM has seen”. Critics have said this is a gross disregard and violation of laid down procedures, rules, and regulations that outline the requirement of the CM’s signature.

Such files, apart from concerning the administration and governance of the national capital, include highly sensitive matters.

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