Amidst the ongoing controversy over the beautification of Delhi for the upcoming G20 Summit, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi weighed in, acknowledging the efforts of municipal authorities and asserting that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government should not take sole credit for the transformation.
As preparations for the G20 Summit, set to host dignitaries from 40 countries, intensify across Delhi, Lekhi emphasized that various areas of the city fall under the jurisdiction of different ministries and authorities. She noted that some areas are managed by the Ministry of Defence, others by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) under the Road Transport Ministry, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Public Works Department (PWD) under the Delhi government.
Lekhi pointed out the lack of progress in these areas over the past several years, implying that the authorities lacked proper direction during that time. She praised Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena for his swift action in making arrangements for the summit.
“The L-G, in a period of just 2 months, made all arrangements (for the G20 summit). Also, many sculptures and statues were installed through the CSR of companies. He took the onus on himself and played a leadership role because of which such arrangements could be made,” Lekhi stated.
While giving credit to PWD and MCD workers for their hard work, Lekhi criticized the Delhi government, claiming they were “missing in action.”
India assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2022, and is set to host the summit on September 9 and 10. The event is expected to see the largest congregation of world leaders and delegates in G20 history.
In response to the controversy, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has commended the efforts of PWD and MCD workers in beautifying the city for the G20 delegates. The Delhi government’s stance is that their role is crucial in the city’s transformation.
