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| Panchayati Raj system adds yet another tier to corruption strata in state | | Sarpanchs, Panchs demand 'share' in developmental projects | | Jehangir Rashid
SRINAGAR, Dec 8: Quite contrary to the expectations of people that Panchayati Raj system in the state would eradicate corruption worse has happened on this front as yet another tier of corruption has been added with respect to development scenario in the state.
Sources told Early Times that Sarpanchs and Panchs are demanding their due 'share' as and when any developmental activity is taken up in any part of the state. This has resulted into a situation where not more than 50-60 percent is spent on the project with the rest reaching the pockets of people associated with the whole process.
"Ever since Sarpanchs and Panchs have come to know about their importance as they are demanding their due share in the development projects. This has added yet another tier to the corruption arena with the ultimate project taking a beating. It is due to this reason that defective material is used in construction of bridges, roads and water supply schemes," said sources.
Sources said that after being ditched by the state government as far as payment of honorarium is concerned, the Panchayati Raj representatives are compensating by demanding 'share' out of the development programmes and projects. This they said that has mocked at the importance of putting in place the local self-governance of the overall government set up.
"The state government especially the Rural Development Ministry has played a cruel joke with the Sarpanchs and Panchs by not empowering them. There is no mention of the monthly honorarium that was to be paid by the government towards the Panchayati Raj representatives. Only claims and claims have been made with no practical steps being taken as far as empowerment is concerned," said sources.
Sources said that Sarpanchs and Panchs have been turned into scapegoats since they have to face the ire of masses in case no development no takes place in a particular village. They said after feeling desperate the Panchayati Raj representatives have decided to make merry as and when funds are allocated for any developmental project.
"Everyone joined the bandwagon as soon as the announcement of holding the Panchayati Raj elections was made. The driving force was to serve the people in lieu of certain financial benefits. However, more than two and half years down the line these public representatives continue to remain powerless. This mocks at the overall process whereby government claimed that Panchayati Raj system would bring about a revolution in the state," said sources.
Sources said that current disturbing trend would continue as long as Sarpanchs and Panchs are empowered fully with respect to their devolutionary powers and financial as well. However, at the same time they add that this may not happen since legislators feel that they would be disempowered once powers are given to Panchayati Raj representatives. |
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