Panchayats lock horns with officials over ‘belligerent reforms’A bitter turf war is unfolding in Lakshadweep between elected representatives of panchayats and officials of the Union Territory administration in the wake of the latter trying to push a series of ‘belligerent reforms’ unmindful of protests. The letter also flays the official for violating protocol by excluding top panchayat officials from the meetings. Meanwhile, the Kavaratti village (dweep) panchayat passed a resolution protesting the ‘unconstitutional, undemocratic and unscientific’ reforms pushed by the administration. On completion of the permit period, they have to return to the mainland or they have to obtain permission from the ADM for extension,” the order said. The new order is in the wake of several committees and political leaders seeking permission to visit the islands to get a feel of what’s happening on ground.

Source: The Hindu May 29, 2021 14:41 UTC