Shake-up to drive opposition CMs’ meet in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Against the backdrop of the shake-up in CBI, which is seen as an embarrassment to the Modi government, opposition parties are planning to use a planned conclave of chief ministers later this month to highlight the “collapse of government machinery” and build a narrative around it ahead of a string of elections.

Many of the parties, which had earlier accused the BJP-led government of misusing CBI against political rivals, see this as an opportunity to get back at the premier agency as it reels under infighting.

Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia had sent out a letter on October 8, inviting CMs from opposition-ruled states for a meeting to discuss the terms of reference of the 15th Finance Commission, which many states have said are against the federal spirit of the Constitution. Sources said in light of the latest developments, the meeting may well focus on the CBI, apart from the 15th Finance Commission and Centre-state relations. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, who will host the meet here on October 29 and 30, is expected to send out formal invitations again.

Chief ministers and finance ministers of Bengal, Kerala, Punjab, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh and Delhi have met for three rounds earlier and also submitted a joint memorandum to the President on the 15th Finance Commission issue.

Sources said this time the agenda will be broadened as the 2019 parliamentary polls and the year-end state elections draw near.

Kejriwal has been part of the opposition unity group formed by Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu.