Mamata Banerjee writes to Arvind Kejriwal; extends support over NCT bill

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal expressing support for his stand on the GNCT of Delhi Act (Amendment) Bill.

Mamata Banerjee said, "I fully support the way you have opposed the undemocratic and unconstitutional move of the Centre. Such a decision is nothing more than a surgical strike on the federal structure.”
 

In the letter, the Trinamool supremo wrote, "I am not at all surprised by the way the BJP has undermined the power of the Delhi Chief Minister. It is clear from this decision that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah could not digest the BJP's defeat to the Aam Aadmi Party in 2014 and 2019. They want to take control of Delhi by proxy.”
 

Note that the National Capital Territory of Delhi Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha. According to that law, the power of the Chief Minister of Delhi has been curtailed. Besides, the power of the deputy governor has been increased.
 

Kejriwal thanked Mamata Banerjee for coming out in his support against the Centre’s Bill that gives overarching power to the L-G, saying anyone who supports India and its democracy cannot support the legislation.
 

Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, “Thank you Didi for supporting the people of Delhi against the Centre’s unconstitutional step. Anyone who supports India and its democracy cannot support this Bill. I hope the BJP government will withdraw this Bill. Please take care of your health. I also pray for your handsome victory in coming elections.”