Sonia nominates Dikshit CLP CM

In an evening of hectic activity, the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting, attended by the party’s victorious MLAs, authorised Sonia to `choose’ the leader of the CLP. A resolution to this effect was passed unanimously by the CLP, which met at the All India Congress Committee headquarters. The resolution, which was moved by the former Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee chief Prem Singh, read: “The CLP requests Congress president Sonia Gandhi to choose our leader. Whoever she chooses will be the leader of the CLP.” The resolution was seconded by senior leader Tajdar Babbar and the other MLAs present.

The CLP also passed two more resolutions, one thanking Sonia for leading the party to victory in the Assembly elections, and another thanking the voters for reposing faith in the Congress.

Sheila Dikshit presided over the meeting which was also attended by Arjun Singh, R.K. Dhawan and Oscar Fernandes.

The meeting, which was scheduled for 6.30 pm, began about 30 minutes late as the MLAs were delayed on their way to the meeting. When Dikshit finally arrived, all hell broke loose, with mediapersons jostling at the entrance.

After considerable pushing and shoving, the press was allowed into the hall, even as senior leaders threatened that if the situation was not brought under control, the meeting would have to be postponed and held elsewhere.

Central observer Arjun Singh pointed out: “I have attended many CLP meetings. This is perhaps the first time it is being held in the presence of outsiders. But then Delhi is Delhi.” He requested Prem Singh to introduce the resolution.

After the meeting, Dikshit drove from AICC to 10, Janpath, to meet Sonia.

Acknowledging greetings from well-wishers and supporters at her residence later in the evening, Dikshit issued a stern warning to the hoarders and black marketeers who are behind the artificial scarcity of essential items.

“A crackdown on these hoarders and strengthening of the public distribution system will be accorded topmost priority to check price rise immediately,” she said. A more efficient administration and adeqaute power supply for Delhiites also figure among her list of priorities.

She was, however, non committal about the rest of her agenda. On being asked whether she expected any conflict with the Centre and the city’s municipal council, which are being led by the BJP, the CM designate replied that she was prepared for any such challenge as she was determined “to work for the welfare of the people with absolute sincerity and total conviction”.

On the choice of her Cabinet, she said the decision would be taken only after she formally receives the appointment letter. The DPCC has forwarded its decision (electing her as the leader of the CLP) to the Election Commission. On the reported infighting among the Congress MLAs, she said she was committed to resolving problems and differences “to serve the people and not waste time in squabbling or infighting”.

The swearing-in is likely to take place after “a day or two”, she said.