Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi has taken a significant step by approaching the Supreme Court with a plea seeking the authority for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to perform the functions of the Standing Committee until its official formation. This move comes on the heels of Oberoi's proposal, less than two weeks ago, to transfer the powers of the standing committee to the House, a proposition that has sparked opposition from BJP members who have labeled it as "illegal and unconstitutional."

The Leader of Opposition in the MCD, BJP leader Raja Iqbal Singh, has accused the AAP government and Delhi Mayor of attempting to circumvent standing committee elections. Singh asserts that the AAP-led government fears dissent among its councilors, who may lean towards supporting BJP candidates in the standing committee elections due to what he describes as the AAP's "dictatorial attitude."

The plea, which names the Lieutenant Governor's Office as the respondent, seeks direction for the smooth functioning of the civic body. It draws attention to a prior legal matter, noting that on May 17, 2023, the Supreme Court reserved its verdict on a plea challenging the appointment of nominated individuals in the MCD without the aid and advice of the Delhi government.

Oberoi, in her plea, emphasizes the impact of the pending legal decision on the constitution of the Standing Committee. She highlights that the adjudication of the legality of the appointed individuals will directly influence the election of 12 out of 18 members of the Standing Committee, preventing its formation.

The legal uncertainty has created disruptions in the operations of the Standing Committee, leading to a halt in critical administrative functions. Among these affected functions are the approval of contracts exceeding Rs 5 crore and other budgetary matters. Oberoi's plea notes that this situation has adversely affected a range of governance functions in the MCD, from the procurement of textbooks and medical supplies for MCD’s schools and health centers to the maintenance of public parks, public toilets, and other amenities.