The transfer appeared to be the first of many, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal warning of a major administrative reshuffle.

Speaking at a press conference shortly after the judgment, Kejriwal indicated that there will be action against officials who "obstruct" public works.

"The vigilance will now be with us. Disciplinary proceedings can be initiated against officers who do not work properly," the Chief Minister had said.

Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party tweeted: "The elected government will have the power of transfer-posting of officers. Officers will work only through the elected government."

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court ruled that the Delhi government has legislative and executive powers over the administration of services, and only "Public Order, Police, and Land" are excluded from its jurisdiction.

In a democratic form of governance, the power of administration must rest on the elected arm, said the bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.