Saurabh Bhardwaj challenges LG VK Saxena for debate over tree cutting in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Delhi minister and AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj on Monday criticized lieutenant governor VK Saxena regarding the cutting of trees in city. Bhardwaj challenged the LG to a debate, saying, "The place is yours, the time is yours, come and debate on this issue. Don't hide behind the walls of LG House."

According to Bhardwaj, the LG misled both Delhi and the court and was caught in the act. He accused the LG of knowingly ordering the trees to be cut, believing that all officers were under his authority and would comply with his orders.

Bhardwaj pointed out that the chief secretary, divisional commissioner, PWD secretary, forest secretary, and DDA officers all supported the LG's decision. He claimed that none of Delhi's top bureaucrats had the courage to inform the LG that cutting such trees is against the law.

Bhardwaj also demanded that the LG should resign from his position.

"I invite LG, the place is yours, the time is yours, come and debate on this issue, don't hide behind the walls of LG House. You misled Delhi and the court and you got caught. He got the trees cut knowingly. He thought that all the officers were under him and who would do anything. The Chief Secretary, Divisional Commissioner, PWD Secretary, Forest Secretary, and DDA officers, all were with LG. No one in Delhi's top bureaucracy dared to tell LG that cutting such trees is illegal. LG should resign now," Saurabh Bhardwaj said.