CPI(M) criticises Jharkhand gov over panchayat election issue

Ranchi, Dec 16 (UNI) Accusing the Madhu Koda government of adopting ''lackadaisical attitude'' over holding of panchayat election in Jharkhand, the CPI(Marxist) today demanded a clear stand over the issue.

State secretary of the party Gyanshankar Mazumdar alleged that the government was 'misguiding' people by saying that the matter was with the judiciary and the panchayat election was witheld by the former Chief Minister Arjun Munda.

Mr Mazumdar allged that Mr Koda was not prepared to review the decision of Mr Munda and take initiative to hold the panchayat election.

According to the povisions, Chairpersons at all levels should belong to schedule tribes and 50 per cent seats at all levels should be reserved for the STs.

Mr Mazumdar said chairpersons in Zila Parishads and panchayat samities were not directly elected therefore it does not come under notification of Panchayat election.

He said only mukhiyas of panchayats are to be elected according to Jharkhand Panchayat Raj Act 2001 adding if the government had the intention to form the bodies it could make amendment in the act.

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