Vijai Kapoor sworn in as LG

Delhi Police Commissioner T.R. Kakkar and man tipped to replace him for the post, V.N. Singh, were also present.

At a press conference later, the LG promised “a period of transparency and cooperation” and reiterated his commitment to Delhiites for a better summer which would see no power or water shortage.

“I met the Prime Minister yesterday and he assured me that he can provide more raw water to Delhi which should go a long way in solving the water problem.”

“We will also try to get more power from the grid but it is up to the Delhi Vidyut Board to distribute power efficiently in the city.”

He unveiled a scheme for improving school buildings during summer vacations white-washing, cleaning up, revamping the building and repairs. He has issued instructions to the effect that till the principals of the schools do not submit certificates that the work has been done, the schools will not be allowed to reopen.

Choosing to be circumspect on issues concerning the schemes launched by the former Lt. Governor Tejendra Khanna, he said that they will be re-examined and said that the posts specially created by Khanna in his staff will undergo “need-based changes”.

Ruling out the hitherto controversial “helping out with the municipal functioning”, he said: “In a place like Delhi, multiplicity of authority is inherent which is the reason why there is a need to harmonise the role of these agencies.”

“I am not looking at ploughing any separate furrow and am not looking at supplanting anyone’s authority. The Delhi Government, MCD and other agencies have to work together.” On the performance of the Delhi Police he said, “The police should be more professional and an increase in its size is not going to help.” He also said that the points raised in the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General on corruption will be considered immediately. On his stand on Delhi attaining statehood he said, “It is on the agenda of the ruling party. When it happens, we will work accordingly.”