MCD split: President nod awaited

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Government is hoping to get the President of India Pratibha Patil’s assent for its amendment Bill that will trifurcate the MCD. The Delhi State Election Commission is expected to present a proposal on the formula for reservation of 50 per cent of the 272 Municipal wards for women within one week of the President’s approval. Municipal polls, slated for April next year, will elect the new formation.
CM Sheila Dikshit had a meeting with urban development minister AK Walia, senior officials and the Delhi Election Commissioner Rakesh Mehta to discuss MCD trifurcation on Friday. However, all decisions and plans will only be taken after the President gives her assent. If the approval comes within a week, Rakesh Mehta will then submit a proposal to the state on how 50% seats out of 272 will be reserved for women. This proposal will need the final approval of the Lieutenant governor of Delhi.TNN