Atishi, Delhi L-G spar over ‘demolition’ of religious structures

Tue Dec 31 20:13:28 UTC 2024: ## Delhi CM Accuses LG of Planned Demolition of Religious Sites; LG Denies Claims

**New Delhi, January 1, 2025** – A major political clash erupted in Delhi on Tuesday as Chief Minister Atishi accused Lieutenant-Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena of approving a plan to demolish several religious sites in the city. In a letter to the L-G, Ms. Atishi claimed a Delhi government committee, with the L-G’s approval, had compiled a list targeting temples and Buddhist sites, many of which are revered by the Dalit community. She urged the L-G to halt the purported demolition drive.

The L-G’s office vehemently denied the allegations, calling them a “cheap political ploy” to distract from the perceived failures of the current and previous AAP administrations. A statement from Raj Niwas asserted that no such demolition plan exists and no relevant files have reached the L-G.

Ms. Atishi’s letter specifically named six temples and statues allegedly included in the demolition list. The Religious Committee, which falls under Delhi’s Home Department, is responsible for recommending the removal of unauthorized religious structures, with its suggestions sent to the L-G for final approval. The ongoing dispute highlights the deep political divide between the AAP government and the Centre-appointed L-G.