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Delhi's Lieutenant Governor, VK Saxena, has taken decisive action by removing 223 employees from the city's women commission, alleging that AAP MP Swati Maliwal made the appointments during her tenure as chairperson in violation of regulations.
Maliwal has strongly criticized the Lieutenant Governor's move, warning that the commission could face closure if all contractual staff are terminated. She claims the panel currently employs a total of 90 staff members, with only 8 being government employees and the rest on three-month contracts. Maliwal has defiantly challenged the Lieutenant Governor, stating, "I will not allow the women's commission to shut down. Put me in jail, but do not subject women to torment."
According to the order issued by the Lieutenant Governor's office, the Delhi Commission for Women Act stipulates a sanctioned strength of 40 employees, highlighting that the creation of 223 new posts occurred without the Lieutenant Governor's approval. The order asserts that the commission lacks the authority to hire employees on contract basis. This action stems from an inquiry report submitted to the Lieutenant Governor's office in February 2017.
Additionally, the order, issued by the Additional Director of the Women and Child Development department, alleges a failure to evaluate essential posts prior to the appointments. It also warns against undertaking any action that could result in additional financial burden for the government without prior approval from the finance department.
An investigation revealed that the appointments did not adhere to established procedures. The order further criticizes the augmentation of remuneration and allowances for DCW staff without proper justification, deeming it a violation of established protocols.
Prior to becoming an AAP MP in the Rajya Sabha, Maliwal served as the head of the Delhi Commission for Women for nine years. Currently, the post of the panel's chairperson remains vacant. The order notes that Maliwal was repeatedly advised to seek approval from the finance department regarding the appointments.
