New Delhi: Expressing concern over killing of some sarpanches in Jammu and Kashmir, Panchayati Raj Minister V Kishore Chandra Deo on Friday appealed to the state government to provide adequate security to the elected panchayat members.
"I express my deep concern at the killing of elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, and express my heartfelt condolence and sympathies to the kith and kin of the bereaved," he said.
The Union minister also appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir government to ensure "adequate security" for the elected members.
He praised the role of pachayati raj institutions in ensuring decentralisation of power at grassroots level and expressed hope that democratic process in the state will soon be back on tracks.
Terming improper implementation of panchayati raj laws in some states as "unfortunate", Deo said while many states have demanded more funds from the Centre, the devolution of certain functions to the panchayats has not taken place.
"It is unfortunate to note that many states are reluctant to devolve funds, functions or functionaries to the elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions. This actually hampers the feel and free flow of democratic process," Deo said.
PTI
