Ahead of Bengaluru Meet, Congress Supports AAP

NEW DELHI: Ahead of the scheduled meeting of Opposition parties in Bengaluru, the Congress clarified its stance on the Centre's ordinance pertaining to the control of services in Delhi. Ending weeks of speculation, Congress general secretary K.C. Venugopal announced the party's opposition to the ordinance during a press conference. He also hoped the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) will participate in the Opposition meeting. Venugopal firmly stated that the Congress consistently opposes the Union government's attempts to undermine federalism, including the interference in Opposition-ruled states through governors. The decision was made during a parliamentary strategy meeting held on Saturday (July 15), chaired by CPP chief Sonia Gandhi.

Venugopal further emphasised that the Congress stands against any endeavours to sabotage federalism in the country and intervene in state matters through governors. The party does not support the Delhi ordinance or any other such attempts. The issue was thoroughly discussed during the parliamentary strategy meeting.

The AAP had insisted that the Congress publicly declare its position on the ordinance if it desires to sustain the Opposition alliance.

The Centre intends to pass the Ordinance during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, as it must be presented in both Houses within six months to become a law. The Ordinance effectively overturns a recent Supreme Court ruling that granted control over the transfer and appointment of bureaucrats in Delhi to the Delhi government, excluding those related to police, public order, and land.