The MLAs of Delhi now want security cover for themselves in view of the public anger against them on the sealing issue. Fearing reprisals, the legislators raised the issue in the Delhi Assembly and followed it up with the government.
After 19 MLAs met Speaker Chaudhary Prem Singh demanding police security, the Speaker has now written to Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit saying that in view of "the present scenario of Delhi, the MLAs should be provided with proper security for safeguarding their lives and property".
Congress MLA Vijay Locchav said: "We have to move out at odd hours to address the grievances of the people. The prevailing conditions are not suitable and security would help us discharge our duties as public representatives".
The MLAs have submitted a memorandum which said that they feel "highly unsecured and a sense of fear haunts them which creates hurdles in discharging their duty".
Speaker Prem Singh said the demand of the members is genuine and their request for providing security like other states should be taken up at the appropriate level. "If other states are providing security to their MLAs, then why can't the members of our assembly be provided the same for safeguarding their lives and property," said the Speaker.
The ruse for security cover is also interesting. The memorandum of the legislators pointed out that they have to move out in their constituency in odd hours to sort out problems and grievances related to electricity, scarcity of water, accidents and other public related issues. "There is every possibility of anti social elements taking benefit of the easy accessibility of the MLAs in the absence of a security cover," it said.
{{/usCountry}}The ruse for security cover is also interesting. The memorandum of the legislators pointed out that they have to move out in their constituency in odd hours to sort out problems and grievances related to electricity, scarcity of water, accidents and other public related issues. "There is every possibility of anti social elements taking benefit of the easy accessibility of the MLAs in the absence of a security cover," it said.
{{/usCountry}}Email Amitabh Shukla: ashukla@hindustantimes.com