New Delhi: The functioning of MCD’s standing committee has come to a halt due to delays in completing elections for vacant posts, raising concerns over the approval of nearly 70 civic proposals and key financial decisions, according to sources.The committee last met on March 31, when nine out of 18 members retired through a draw of lots — a mandatory exercise undertaken after the committee’s formation. Since then, the positions remain vacant, leaving the committee without the required strength to function or convene meetings.Under the normal process, the election of a new mayor at the beginning of each financial year is followed by the election of three standing committee members from the House. Subsequently, six more members are elected from various zones to complete the full strength of 18 members.“Nearly three months have passed since the start of the financial year, but six members — from Narela, Central, Shahdara South, Keshavpuram and Najafgarh zones — are yet to be elected, along with zonal committee chairpersons,” said a source.Councillors said the standing committee and zonal committees serve as important platforms for questioning senior officials over delays in projects and civic works, but that oversight mechanism is currently absent. Proposals awaiting nod include projects related to fresh waste management and processing facilities at three landfills, and transfer of land to Delhi govt, including a proposal to hand over 6.5 acres in Haiderpur for the construction of a mother-and-child care hospital.Mayor Pravesh Wahi told TOI the process was delayed due to several engagements, including sanitation drives undertaken by MCD. “We expect the notification to be issued within the next three-four days, after which elections for zonal committees and the standing committee members will be conducted,” he said.AAP councillor and standing committee member Praveen Kumar, however, said it could take another month before the committee becomes functional.“Members of the deliberative wing or the sitting chairperson giving anticipatory approvals to projects and tenders are being invited, but no discussion is taking place with councillors. It is difficult to understand the reason for the delay when BJP has a majority in MCD… People’s issues are not getting a platform for discussion,” Kumar alleged.A House meeting has been called on June 26, and any further process is likely to happen only after that, he added.The uncertainty has persisted since the 2022 MCD elections. The standing committee could not be constituted for nearly two years because of political deadlock, with BJP accusing AAP of delays. Elections were eventually held in June 2025, enabling the committee’s formation.
