Delhi gets own assembly as Parl approves move

In 1991, Parliament gave its nod to setting up of a 70-member legislative assembly for Delhi

- HT Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Parliament on December 20, 1991, put its seal of approval for setting up of a 70-member legislative assembly and a seven-member council of ministers for Delhi with the adoption of the Constitution Amendment Bill by both the Houses.

The Lok Sabha passed the National Capital Territory Bill, giving effect to the Constitution Amendment Bill. The 74th Constitution Amendment Bill was then adopted without much discussion in both Houses. While the Lok Sabha voted it by 349 votes to nil, the Rajya Sabha approved the Bill with 142 members supporting it and one lone member giving his dissent.

The bill, piloted by home minister SB Chavan in both the Houses, provides for a 70-member assembly without powers to legislate on matters of public order, police, and land.

Unlike the states where the governors have the powers to appoint chief ministers, the chief minister in Delhi will be appointed by the President and ministers shall hold office at the pleasure of the President.

The National Capital Territory Bill contains certain special provisions which includes barring the assembly to introduce any bill except on the recommendation of the Lieutenant Governor in respect of imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax.