Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. SRINAGAR: Mr. Anil Sharma, President of the All Jammu & Kashmir Panchayat Conference, has expressed serious concern over the ongoing interference in the rights of Panchayats and Gram Sabhas in Jammu & Kashmir, terming it a grave threat to democratic values.
He stated that Panchayats and Gram Sabhas are the fundamental pillars of democracy, ensuring governance and development at the grassroots level. However, the systematic weakening of these institutions under the present circumstances is highly alarming and unacceptable.
He further clarified that the core objective of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment is to empower Panchayats by granting them financial and administrative autonomy, thereby promoting transparency, accountability, and public participation at the local level. The current situation in Jammu & Kashmir, however, stands in stark contrast to these constitutional principles.
Mr. Sharma emphasized that any unwarranted interference in the funds allocated by the Government of India for Panchayats and Gram Sabhas is not only unlawful but also undermines grassroots democracy. Such funds must be utilized strictly for local development works in accordance with the decisions of the Gram Sabha. Any attempt to control or divert these funds weakens both governance and public trust.
He asserted that this situation constitutes a clear violation not only of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment but also of the Jammu & Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 and the J&K Panchayati Raj Rules, 1996.
Mr. Sharma appealed to all Ex-Sarpanchs, Ex-Panchs, Ex-BDC, and Ex-DDC members, as well as former Panchayat representatives across Jammu & Kashmir, to rise above party politics and unite for the protection of their constitutional and democratic rights. He emphasized that this is not an issue of any single group, but a matter concerning the entire Panchayati system and grassroots democracy.
He also announced that a petition will be filed before the Hon’ble High Court to seek judicial intervention and to safeguard the rightful powers of Panchayats and Gram Sabhas. He assured that all necessary legal measures will be undertaken to ensure justice.
Furthermore, the All Jammu & Kashmir Panchayat Conference has urged the Government of India and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to take immediate cognizance of the situation and intervene to protect Panchayat rights and strengthen grassroots democratic institutions. In conclusion, Mr. Sharma expressed confidence that the judiciary will uphold justice and ensure that Panchayats and Gram Sabhas receive their legitimate rights.
