In a bold move to digitize governance, all 70 members of the Delhi Legislative Assembly — including opposition leaders — have been handed the latest iPhone 16 Pro smartphones. This comes as part of a push under the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) initiative, aiming to make the Assembly fully paperless. Alongside the iPhones, MLAs were also given iPads, tablets, and digital training ahead of the Monsoon Session that began on August 5, 2025.
The initiative’s stated goal is to modernize legislative operations, reduce dependency on paper, and improve workflow efficiency. The devices are meant to give MLAs quicker and more secure access to official documents and legislative proceedings.
Public Backlash Over Cost
While the digital shift has been praised in some quarters as a progressive step, the estimated ₹1.5 lakh cost per iPhone has sparked widespread criticism. Many citizens and commentators on social media have raised concerns about spending taxpayer money on luxury gadgets for elected officials, especially at a time when economic and social welfare pressures remain high.
Critics argue that the funds could have been used more effectively in health, education, or infrastructure sectors, rather than on high-end devices for bureaucrats. The timing of the move — coinciding with new rules allowing for pricier phones for lawmakers — has only added fuel to the controversy.
A Divided Response
The reactions from political circles and the public are sharply divided. Some see the move as a step toward transparent and tech-enabled governance. Others call it out-of-touch spending that sends the wrong message when many citizens still lack basic digital access.
Key Facts:
- Who received devices? All Delhi MLAs, including those in the opposition.
- What was given? iPhone 16 Pros, iPads, and tablets.
- Why? To support a shift to paperless governance under the NeVA digital platform.
- When? Distributed on the opening day of the Monsoon Session, August 5.
- Controversy? Citizens and opposition leaders have questioned the cost and timing, calling it excessive amid fiscal constraints.
Larger Context
The Delhi Assembly’s tech upgrade is one of the most high-profile digital transitions by any Indian state legislature. It reflects a national push toward e-governance, but also exposes the challenges of balancing innovation with public accountability. As the debate continues, the move has put a spotlight on how governments invest in technology — and who ultimately benefits.
