Manoj Tiwari sidelines Goel man, picks new Leader of House

New Delhi: Sending across a stern message, Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari has dropped Union minister Vijay Goel’s confidant, Jai Prakash, as Leader of the House in the North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC). BJP councillor Jai Prakash, known for his proximity to Mr Goel, had gone against the party’s directive by participating in functions organised by the Union minister.

After getting a historic mandate in the April 23 civic polls in the city, the Delhi BJP, while finalising the names of mayor and deputy mayor for the three civic corporations, also announced Sikha Rai, Jai Prakash and Santosh Pal as Leader of the House in South, North, and East Delhi Municipal Corporation respectively. But these leaders failed to assume office as the party had not issued formal letters to the respective municipal secretaries confirming their appointments.

Well-placed sources in the party said that after much deliberation, it has been decided that the party must forgive their mistake of not following the leadership direction in true spirit and give these councillors a chance to perform and deliver.

“Despite a stern warning, Mr Prakash was found managing affairs at the Champions Trophy final between India and Pakistan. He failed to explain that in which capacity he was acting like a protocol officer, receiving guests and VIPs. Closeness to Mr Goel has failed to secure Mr Prakash the position of Leader of House,” said a party insider.

Jayendra Dabas has been appointed leader in NDMC in place of Mr Prakash. Shikha Rai and Santosh Pal have been appointed Leader of House in the SDMC and EDMC respectively.