SC Allows Delhi Govt To Amend Plea Challenging Service Law Instead Of Ordinance

The Supreme Court on Friday granted permission to the Delhi government for the amendment of its petition aimed at challenging the recently cleared law by Parliament pertaining to authority over services within the national capital.

The apex court acknowledged the representations made by senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing the Delhi government. It was brought to the court’s attention that the initial challenge was directed towards an Ordinance that has subsequently transformed into law following approval from the Parliament.

A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud sanctioned the modification to the petition, as the Central Government expressed its lack of objection to the amendment. The bench extended a period of 4 weeks for the Centre to furnish its response to the amended plea.

Parliament recently cleared the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2023 aka Delhi Services Bill, was endorsed by Parliament. This legislation has paved the path for the proposed central legislation concerning the appointments and transfers of bureaucrats within the national capital. Despite contentious discussions in the House and the Opposition’s efforts to prevent it, the legislation was approved. Prior to this, the challenge to the Ordinance over services was referred to a 5-judge constitution bench.

The law took the control over services from the city dispensation and sets off a fresh tussle between the 2 power centres.