CAP allege SKM neglecting Panchayati Raj system in Sikkim

In a fresh attack, the Citizen Action Party has accused the Prem Singh Tamang-led Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government of neglecting the Panchayati Raj system in the state.

“After the formation of the SKM government, the Panchayat Sammelan was held only once in the last 3–4 years,” CAP president LP Lafle alleged.

He said that during the tenure of the present government, the Panchayati Raj system has been a complete failure, and the state’s revenue has also suffered a huge loss due to it.

He further alleged that the budget of 15th Finance Commission did not reach the panchayat due to the government’s failure to use the 14th Finance Commission funds. The 14th Finance Commission ensures the distribution of goods to states for local bodies (panchayats and municipalities) and recommends grants-in-aid under Article 275 of the Constitution of India.

Lafle further alleged that the panchayats did not get their quarterly salaries on time.

If CAP’s government is formed in the state, he said that they will give rights and powers to the panchayats while declaring their commitment to strengthening the Panchayati Raj system in the state.
“We will give Deputy Minister status to panchayat president, and status of cabinet minister to the district panchayat,” Lafle said.

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