Nitish rules out payment of salaries to Panchayat representatives

Patna, July 17 (UNI) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today ruled out the payment of salaries to the elected Panchayat representatives saying it was not feasible in the present poor financial position of the state.

Mr Kumar told news persons here that there were 60,000 elected panchayat representatives in Bihar and state government would have to incur annual financial burden of Rs 1200 crores, even if the salaries would be paid at minimum admissible rates.

''It does not appear to be feasible in the given poor financial condition of the state'', he added.

'' Bihar government is implementing the recommendations of the earlier State Finance Commission till the new state finance commission constituted to look into the financial requirements of the panchayat representatives, submits its report'', Mr Kumar informed.

When asked about the hue and cry raised by the opposition over violation of reservation rules in promotion and appointment in state government services, he said they were misleading the people and added that reservation norms were strictly being followed by the Bihar government.

UNI