Lt. Governor Nominates Home Minister for Flag Hoisting Amid Controversy

Lt. Governor VK Saxena on Tuesday selected Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gahlot to hoist the national flag at the state-level Independence Day event, sidestepping the AAP government's appeal for Education Minister Atishi to do so.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) responded positively to the decision, highlighting that it honored democratic principles by opting for an elected official over an appointed one.

Earlier, tensions flared as the general administration department rejected Minister Gopal Rai's suggestion for Atishi to take Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's place in flag-hoisting duties, citing legal constraints. Kejriwal had requested from jail for Atishi to hoist the tricolor, but his plea was blocked by prison authorities. Following the Ministry of Home Affairs' authorization, the LG nominated Gahlot, emphasizing the Home Department's significant role in the event.

(With inputs from agencies.)