New Delhi: The Supreme Court raised concerns as the Centre expressed its intent to extend the tenure of Delhis Chief Secretary, Naresh Kumar, slated to retire on November 30. The bench questioned the governments exclusive focus on one individual for such a crucial post.A bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra asked the Centre to justify its decision and demonstrate the grounds and authority for extending the chief secretarys tenure.Why Only One Asks Supreme CourtAddressing Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the bench asked, Dont you have any other IAS officer who can be the Chief Secretary Why are you stuck with only one name Mehta explained the plan to extend Naresh Kumars tenure for a limited period.Lack of Faith Between PartiesSenior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Delhi government, raised concerns about the lack of faith between the Chief Secretary and the Delhi government. Singhvi proposed considering alternatives, such as selecting a candidate from a panel or appointing the senior-most IAS officer.Legal Powers Under ScrutinyWhile asserting the Centres power to extend tenures, the bench urged the government to demonstrate these powers by the next hearing. The court emphasized the need to explore alternatives or proceed with the appointment.Apex Courts Earlier DirectiveIn a previous hearing, the Supreme Court directed the Centre and Delhis Lieutenant Governor to propose a panel of names, from which the Delhi government could choose the new chief secretary. The Centre was instructed to share the shortlisted candidates names by the specified date.AAPs Challenge Against ExtensionThe plea, filed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, contests the Centres move to extend Chief Secretary Kumars tenure without consultation. The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, which grants the Centre control over bureaucracy, is at the centre of this legal battle.Alleged Violation of Constitutional Bench JudgmentThe plea alleges that the 2023 Amendment Act violates a 2023 Constitution bench judgment, reducing the Delhi government to a mere observer in crucial executive appointments. The apex court continues to scrutinize this contentious issue.This coverage delves into the Supreme Courts questioning of the Centres decision to extend the tenure of Delhis Chief Secretary, bringing to light concerns about exclusivity and the need for transparency in bureaucratic appointments.(With ANI Inputs)
