Delhi govt working on proposal to enhance powers of DMs

New Delhi, Jun 10 (PTI) The Delhi government is working to give effect to its decision to empower district magistrates, with the services department preparing a proposal in this regard to seek the lieutenant governor’s approval, officials said on Wednesday.

At a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta last week in the wake of the Malviya Nagar fire tragedy, a decision was taken to empower the district magistrates for more effective enforcement against unauthorised constructions in the city.

The meeting was informed that fragmented administrative authority among various departments makes enforcement often difficult. The government then decided to strengthen the powers of the district magistrates.

Home Minister Ashish Sood had said district

magistrates will soon have extensive authority like initiating disciplinary action directly, ordering registration of FIRs, approving or cancelling leave and taking immediate action against officers who fail to perform their duties.

A senior Delhi government officer said the idea of empowering district magistrates was part of the decision to set up a “Mini Secretariat” to bring the services of various departments in the districts under one roof.

During the reorganisation of districts from 11 to 13 last year, a committee was formed to implement the concept of the Mini Secretariat and empower district magistrates for unified administrative authority and action, the officer said.

The services department is preparing a proposal for increasing the powers of district magistrates. Since services matters come under the LG’s jurisdiction, the proposal will be sent for his approval, he added. PTI VIT RC