K'taka: Panchayath members demands more powers

Bangalore, Jun 25: Alleging that the JD(S)-BJP coalition government in Karnataka had taken away most of the executive powers vested with them, Taluk Panchayath Members picketed near the Chief Minister's official residence demanding restoration of powers or to supersede them.

Speaking to newsmen Karnataka State Taluk Panchath Presidents and Vice Presidents Association President Sridhar Raddera alleged that ever since the coalition government assumed power in the state all the powers vested with Panchayath institutions were withdrawn and the legislators were ruling the roost.

He said that after the Belur Declaration in the previous Congress government the Panchayath institutions were given more responsibility in the administration at the Taluk and Village level. However, the legislators were now meddling with the functioning of these institutions, he charged.

He said the Association had approached the Chief Minister many times on the issue but in vain and resorted to agitation now. He said Taluk Panchayath Members, from all parts of the state, participated in the agitation and would continue their stir until their demands were met.

UNI