In a move which may kickstart yet another confrontation with the Delhi government, lieutenant-governor Najeeb Jung has refused to give a go-ahead to the AAP government’s ambitious “app-based premium bus service” which was to be rolled out from June 1 and has sought explanation from transport commissioner Sanjay Kumar for “misusing” his name while issuing a notification in this regard. The AAP dispensation did not seek prior approval from the L-G to notify the scheme with government officials claiming that there is no need to do the same before rolling out the scheme.
A senior Delhi government official, however, said the lieutenant governor has asked chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to give a re-look into the proposed scheme. The move may trigger another round of confrontation between the L-G’s office and the Kejriwal government which have been at loggerheads over a range of issues.
“The L-G has refused to give go-ahead to the government’s notified app-based premium bus scheme which was not introduced as per laid down rules. The L-G has also sought explanation from the transport commissioner and asked him to file his reply within three days,” a source said.
The Delhi Cabinet had earlier this month approved the scheme to allow app-based bus service in the national capital on the lines of app-based taxis services. Sources further said Mr Kumar was also asked by the L-G why he did not apprise the Cabinet that the scheme is in violation of rules.
Earlier this week, the Delhi government had notified app-based premium bus scheme through which Delhiites would be able to book their seat in a bus through their smart phones on the lines of app-based taxi services. Three days ago, Mr Jung had, however, sought the file pertaining to the scheme from the Delhi government.
