NEW DELHI: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) House witnessed chaotic scenes on Thursday, with councillors throwing papers, damaging microphones and nearly coming to blows. Mayor Parvesh Wahi tried to restore order and even announced additional development funds of Rs 25 lakh for each ward, but the Opposition remained unconvinced. The session was eventually adjourned, with marshals escorting the mayor to safety.
The chaos began when BJP and AAP councillors clashed during a discussion on the capital’s worsening air pollution and cleanliness. Soon after the mayor introduced the debate, AAP councillors demanded the immediate release of Rs 1 crore in development funds for their wards, triggering an uproar.
Wahi announced an immediate allocation of Rs 25 lakh and said Rs 2 crore would be made available to councillors during the current financial year. The Opposition rejected the announcement and pressed for a higher immediate allocation. During the heated exchange, Wahi said, “I am giving you Rs 25 lakh at least; you never gave anybody anything.” Sloganeering intensified as AAP councillors moved towards the well of the House, forcing a five-minute adjournment.
When the House reconvened, the discussion turned to Delhi’s air pollution, with Opposition members questioning the civic body’s efforts to tackle the crisis. The exchange escalated, with BJP and AAP councillors threatening physical confrontation.
Wahi allowed AAP leader of opposition Ankush Narang to speak, but the proceedings were disrupted by “chor chor” slogans and Narang’s criticism of the BJP-led “four-engine” government. Congress leaders also took jibes at Narang, with party leader Naziya Danish telling him to go to Goa instead of the MCD House.
The uproar intensified when Danish took a dig at AAP councillor Shagufta Zubair’s religious values, triggering a verbal spat. Zubair tried to snatch the microphone from Danish and attempted to break the microphone at the mayor’s chair. Members began throwing water and files, further disrupting the proceedings.
Wahi condemned the disruption by AAP councillors, accusing them of obstructing discussions on sanitation and air pollution. He said 2,500 additional sanitation workers would be deployed for three months ahead of the festive season, while each councillor would receive Rs 25 lakh for ward development. The matter has been referred to the House disciplinary committee for action. Wahi said suspensions would follow if recommended by the committee.
Suspensions if committee recommends: Mayor
Wahi said 2,500 additional sanitation workers would be deployed for three months ahead of the festive season, while each councillor would receive Rs 25 lakh for ward development. The matter has been referred to the House disciplinary committee for action. The mayor said suspensions would follow if recommended by the committee.