More say for elected representatives in cantonments sought

New Delhi, Aug 1 (UNI) Members in the Rajya Sabha today sought changes in the Cantonment Bill asking for more powers for the elected representatives rather than those nominated or appointed on the cantonment boards.

Starting discussions on the Bill, senior BJP leader Sushma Swaraj, who herself had lived in the Ambala Cantonment, said the bill did not increase powers of the elected representatives. It reduces their powers.

She also wanted greater freedom for the civilians living in the cantonments. People living in their own houses cannot make changes according to their changing requirements.

Mrs Swaraj said while the Standing Committee had accepted all the suggestions from the local associations, the government has not accepted even a single recommendation which would make these bodies democratic.

She was supported by Congress member Jai Prakash Agarwal who said there should be more elected members in these bodies. He said there was no need for separate slaughter houses in the military areas.

CPI-M member also wanted greater powers for the elected members.

More UNI PC PK RAI1645