NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Tuesday expressed strong opposition to the demolition of religious structures across the city and called on Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to reconsider the orders. In a letter addressed to Saxena, Atishi raised concerns about the decision of the Religious Committee to demolish temples and Buddhist structures, many of which hold significant importance for the Dalit community.

“It has been decided by the Religious Committee—on your directions and with your approval—to demolish multiple religious structures across Delhi. This includes temples and Buddhist places of worship that are deeply revered by the Dalit community,” Atishi wrote.

The CM criticized the November 22, 2024, decision, which she said bypassed the Delhi government and routed all authority through the LG’s office. Emphasizing the elected government’s responsibility to protect religious sentiments, Atishi urged, “On behalf of the people of Delhi, I request you not to demolish these temples and places of worship.”

LG Office Responds: ‘No Demolitions Planned’

Responding to the allegations, the Lieutenant Governor’s office dismissed Atishi’s claims as baseless. A spokesperson stated, “No temples, mosques, churches, or any other places of worship are being demolished. No files regarding such actions have been submitted. The CM’s statements are cheap politics meant to distract from her and her predecessor’s failures.”

The statement highlighted the LG’s efforts to prevent politically motivated vandalism, citing strict instructions to law enforcement to maintain vigilance. “The smooth Christmas celebrations, without any untoward incidents, are proof of these measures,” the spokesperson added.

Escalating Political Tensions

The exchange marks another chapter in the mounting friction between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and the Lieutenant Governor’s office, particularly ahead of the upcoming Delhi elections. Atishi has accused Saxena of undermining the elected government by acting as a proxy for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Atishi’s letter follows a series of confrontations, including a dispute over Arvind Kejriwal’s remark calling her a “temporary CM.” The LG had criticized the comment as disrespectful to constitutional values, to which Atishi replied that all elected officials are temporary by nature and that political criticism should not descend into personal attacks.

As tensions rise, the political landscape in Delhi continues to be shaped by accusations and counter-accusations, with religious and governance issues taking center stage.

Source: ANI and Media