New Delhi: As Independence Day approaches, confusion surrounds who will hoist the national flag at the Delhi governments official event. On Tuesday, the General Administration Department (GAD) clarified that Atishi cannot perform this duty on behalf of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is currently incarcerated in the excise policy case.This development follows a directive from GAD Minister Gopal Rai, who had instructed the department to arrange for Atishi to hoist the flag, as desired by Kejriwal. However, Navin Kumar Chaudhary, the Additional Chief Secretary of GAD, stated, It is absolutely clear that the above communication (Minister Letter) does not qualify in the permissible communication which can be sent outside prison… Any communication, written or oral, in contravention of the rules quoted above, is not legally valid and therefore cannot be acted upon.Constitutional significance of national eventsThe General Administration Department (GAD) stressed that Independence Day and Republic Day are momentous occasions with profound constitutional significance. The department noted that specific guidelines are in place to ensure these events are celebrated with the dignity and respect they warrant. Any deviations from these guidelines or attempts to compromise their significance could erode their sanctity and potentially lead to legal repercussions, the letter stated.Arrangements and awaited decisionThe department noted that although efforts were made to coordinate with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal regarding his availability for the Independence Day event, his judicial custody status means he will not be available. The issue has, therefore, been brought to the kind notice of the higher authorities, and the decision is awaited. General Administration, along with all concerned departments, are making all arrangements for the Independence Day Function at Chhatrasal Stadium as per past practice, the department stated.Kejriwals letter to LGIn a related development, Chief Minister Kejriwal had written to Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, proposing that Atishi should hoist the national flag in his stead during the Independence Day ceremony. However, the L-G office responded that they had not received any such communication from the Chief Minister.Additionally, Tihar jail authorities informed Kejriwal that his letter to the LG constituted an abuse of privileges under the Delhi Prison Rules and as such, was not forwarded to the intended recipient.
