What Steps is the Rajasthan Government Taking as Panchayat Chiefs' Terms Conclude?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- New Administrative Appointments: SDMs and District Collectors will oversee local governance.
- End of Terms: 222 Panchayat Samitis across 21 districts are concluding their terms.
- Temporary Measures: This system will remain until new elections are held.
- Shift in Governance: A significant policy change from past practices.
- Local Governance Impact: Aimed at ensuring continuity in local administration.
Jaipur, Dec 8 (NationPress) The government of Rajasthan has taken significant administrative action as the terms of Panchayat Samiti Pradhans and Zila Parishad chiefs are about to conclude across the state.
Rather than extending the tenures or reappointing current leaders as administrators, the government has opted for a new approach. Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) will be assigned to oversee Panchayat Samitis, while District Collectors will act as administrators for District Councils.
Per directives from the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department, SDMs will be appointed for all Panchayat Samitis whose terms are set to expire by December 11, with District Collectors having the authority to choose the overseeing officer for each region.
A total of 222 Panchayat Samitis across 21 districts, including Udaipur, Tonk, Rajsamand, and Sikar, will reach the end of their terms this month.
Previously, the government had designated Divisional Commissioners as administrators post-term expiration in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Kota Municipal Corporations.
Additionally, District Collectors will take on responsibilities in areas such as Jaisalmer, Ajmer, Banswara, Churu, Hanumangarh, Jhalawar, Jalore, and others.
This decision represents a shift from the previous protocol where outgoing Sarpanches were appointed as administrators following delays in elections in various Panchayats, leading to the formation of temporary committees for governance.
The Panchayat Samiti Pradhans had requested an extension similar to that granted to Sarpanches and approached the Panchayati Raj Minister and the Chief Minister regarding the matter, but their appeal was denied, reinstating the former method of appointing administrative officers.
This new system will remain until fresh elections are conducted.