‘LG’s address in Delhi Assembly disappointing, lifeless’

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) Calling the address of Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal in the Assembly "highly disappointing, lifeless and misleading", Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta on Friday said there was no commitment, newness and determination to lead the Government in the speech.

"The address failed to give vision for future. It appeared as if the LG was fulfilling the statutory requirement of addressing the House. He appeared to be separated from the Government at both emotional and mental levels," Gupta told the media outside the House.

He also said that there was no commitment, newness and determination to lead the Government.

Gupta said that the Government appeared to be running away from the burning problems of Delhi.

"It lacked dynamism and forward movement. It was nothing but summary of the press releases issued during the year. It said things which were read throughout the year.

"The Government appeared to be steering clear of any embarrassing situation. Most of the departments were not given due weightage. The address made one feel that the Government was running hurt and retired," he said.

The Opposition Leader also said that though never tiring of cursing the Central Government, the Kejriwal Government acknowledged the economic progress made by Delhi.

"It acknowledged that it hoped that per capita income during 2018-19 will rise by 11.11 per cent. The gross state domestic product (GSTP) appears to be touching a high of 12.98. The Kejriwal Government accepted that the efforts of the Central Government have contributed to the economic growth of Delhi."

Soon after the Delhi Assembly began its Budget session, three BJP MLAs, including Gupta, were marshalled out of the House for interrupting the welcome address by Baijal.

The Opposition MlAs demanded that the CM should accord sanction in the JNU sedition case without any further delay.

Gupta said that the CM was in the House and "did not react as to when he is going to give sanction for the prosecution. The Opposition members were forcibly marshalled out of the House for persisting."

He also expressed displeasure over not being allowed to pay tributes to the Pulwama martyrs in the House.

Gupta wanted to pay tributes after the Speaker had done so. But he was not allowed.

He said that as per convention, the Opposition has always been allowed to pay tributes to departed souls. "But this time an exception was made which was beyond the realm of convention and democratic values."