PRIs ask parties to include devolution of powers in manifestos

Shimla, Nov 10 (UNI) The Panchayati Raj representatives (PRIs) in Himachal Pradesh have called upon political parties in the state to include their demand for devolution of powers to the panchayats in the party manifestos.

The PRI representatives seek devolution of adequate finances, functions and functionaries to PRIs, as per the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Himachal Pradesh Government and the Union government last year was implemented after a new government takes office early next year.

In a meeting of representatives of all the three tiers system of panchayats at Kangra recently demanded that all the major political parties in the state, including the Congress and the BJP, should express their ''political will'' of strengthening PRI's by committing it through their election manifestos.

The representatives deliberated that adequate powers were not being devolved to the PRIs to discharge their responsibilities efficiently and effectively.

The panchayats have been assigned the responsibilities but have not been given adequate funds and functionaries to discharge their responsibilities.

The Government had formed the District Planning Committee (DPCs), which were rationally not functioning.

Besides, the representatives demanded, that the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) should be transferred within the jurisdiction of Zila Parishad (as stated in the MOU).

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