What powers does the Delhi elected government have?

The National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi operates under a unique administrative structure established by the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1991. The elected government, led by a chief minister and a council of ministers, possesses the authority to legislate on most subjects.1

However, this power is limited, as the elected government does not have jurisdiction over matters relating to public order, police, and land; these areas remain under the purview of the central government. Additionally, the territory is headed by a lieutenant governor appointed by the President of India. The lieutenant governor holds significant discretionary powers and can refer disagreements with the elected government to the president, whose decision is final.123

This dual-power system often creates administrative friction. While the elected government manages general legislative affairs, specific municipal functions are handled by bodies such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), which is an elected body responsible for various municipal and welfare services.2