The West Bengal government has appointed Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) as administrators in municipalities across Darjeeling and Kalimpong, effectively ending the Trinamool Congress-nominated boards in these hill civic bodies. A state notification issued on Monday confirmed that the Governor has approved the move under the Municipal Act.
Full Powers Granted to SDOs
According to the notification, the SDOs will exercise full municipal powers until elected boards are formed or further orders are issued. This decision also extends to the Buniyadpur municipality in South Dinajpur district.
BJP MP Welcomes Decision
BJP MP Raju Bista welcomed the decision, stating, "Since 2022, these municipalities have been run in a completely undemocratic manner without holding elections." He assured that civic services would continue uninterrupted and promised transparent administration until fresh polls are conducted.
The move is seen as a step towards restoring democratic processes in the region, with the state government asserting its authority to ensure proper governance. Local residents have expressed mixed reactions, with some hopeful for improved services and others concerned about political motives.
