In Row With AAP Over Flag Hoisting, Delhi Lt Governor Picks Kailash Gahlot

Delhi Home Minister Kailash Gahlot has been chosen - by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena - to unfurl the national flag during the Delhi government's Independence Day celebration on Thursday.

Mr Gahlot will do so as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal - who would normally lead celebrations - remains in jail following his arrest by the CBI in the alleged liquor policy case.

The choice of Mr Gahlot will fan the flames of conflict between Mr Saxena and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party after Mr Kejriwal wrote to the LG to declare that Education Minister Atishi would do the honours in his absence. Mr Saxena, however, immediately declared Mr Kejriwal's direction "invalid".