Goa Cabinet Approves Key Amendments to Panchayat Raj Act
The Goa state cabinet granted approval on Monday to amend the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, 1994. This move aims to enhance local governance by allowing legislative assembly members and zilla panchayat representatives to participate more actively in gram sabhas.
Enhanced Participation for MLAs and ZP Members
The amendments permit MLAs and ZP members to attend gram sabhas within their constituencies. They can take part in deliberations, but voting rights are restricted. A member can only vote if their name appears on the electoral roll of that specific gram sabha.
The cabinet emphasized this point clearly. It stated that these representatives shall have the right to associate in meetings and participate in proceedings. However, they will not have voting rights unless they are registered as electors in the panchayat's electoral roll.
Streamlining Meeting Procedures
The bill introduces changes to meeting notices. It enables village panchayats to hold up to four ordinary meetings per month. This is achieved by reducing the notice period for such meetings.
For ordinary gram sabha meetings, notice must be given at least seven days in advance. In the case of extraordinary meetings, a minimum of four days' notice is required. The sarpanch is responsible for issuing these notices to MLAs and ZP members. Notices must specify the date, time, place, and agenda of the meeting.
Clarifying Authority and Protecting Buildings
Another significant amendment removes ambiguity in the act. The existing use of the word "also" had created confusion. It suggested there might be another authority besides the panchayat secretary. The new amendment clarifies that the panchayat secretary is the sole authority for exercising powers under the act.
The bill also amends Section 66 to provide protection for certain buildings. Structures reflected in the record of rights and the first survey plan under the Goa Land Revenue Code, 1968, will be shielded from demolition. This measure aims to preserve historical and legally recognized properties.
Background and Need for Amendments
The Goa Panchayat Raj Act was enacted in July 1994 and came into force on July 13, 1994. Since then, it has undergone multiple amendments. The cabinet noted that further changes are necessary for the act's effective implementation.
These amendments address practical issues in local governance. They aim to improve transparency, clarify roles, and ensure smoother functioning of gram sabhas across the state.
