PANAJI
Panchayat Minister Mauvin Godinho has declared that while it is not possible to implement common cadre at panchayat level, the department is in the process of devising a new mechanism to deal with those who shirk their responsibilities.
Speaking in Panaji at a meeting of elected members of panchayats, Godinho stated, “Common cadre is a long-pending demand. But it is not possible because the appointing authority is none other than the panchayat itself. But we will devise a new mechanism and innovate so that we can send the inactive people home. Mere transfers will not suffice in such cases. First two or three such instances of strict actions will set examples.”
He further warned government officers to buck up in their work and maintain high standards while dealing with people. Godinho assured that government will ensure fast delivery on panchayat demands and it will not falter on its word. “We will have regular meetings with elected representatives and I will pay personal visits to as many panchayats as I can,” he stated. The minister further expressed anguish at the degeneration of the primary units of local self-governance. “I have witnessed that the organizational system has degenerated in the panchayats so much so that that peons run panchayats. What then is the value of elected representatives?” he commented, while assuring that under his watch, the elected representatives will enjoy enhanced powers along with additional responsibilities.
Godinho also insisted that there is an urgent need to affect certain changes to the Panchayati Raj Act. “I need your suggestions to bring about stability in panchayats,” he urged the panch members and sarpanchas present at the event.
