Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 24: Emphasising that the District Development Council (DDC) system marked a historic step toward grassroot empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir, senior Congress leader and former DDC Suchetgarh Taranjit Singh Tony today said the framework has played a crucial role in decentralising governance and amplifying local voices.
Speaking at a function organised to mark the conclusion of the DDC tenure, Tony said the DDC structure created under the Panchayati Raj system ensured direct participation of elected representatives in district-level planning and execution of developmental works.
The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner Jammu Rakesh Minhas, flanked by Chairman Bharat Bhushan; Vice Chairman Suraj Singh and other senior officials.
“The DDC framework empowered representatives at the grassroots to shape district planning. It strengthened democracy at the village and block level by linking Panchayats directly with district administration,” Tony said, adding that the system improved transparency, accountability and responsiveness in governance.
Expressing gratitude to the people of Suchetgarh for their trust, Tony said that while the formal tenure ends today, his commitment to public service will continue. Highlighting the work undertaken during the tenure, Tony said DDC members played a proactive role in improving rural roads, water supply schemes, school infrastructure, healthcare access and youth welfare initiatives. He credited coordination between the council members and district administration for timely execution of projects.
However, Tony also called for structural reforms in the DDC system. He demanded delimitation and reorganisation of District Development Councils based on Panchayat clusters rather than rigid district boundaries. “If DDC constituencies are reorganised as per Panchayat strength and geographical realities, representation will become more balanced and development more focused. The framework must evolve to reflect grassroots needs,” he asserted.
Addressing the gathering, DC Jammu described the outgoing DDC tenure as “productive and people-centric.” He appreciated the zeal and dedication shown by members across party lines. “I urge them to continue serving society with the same spirit. Soon, the process for formation of a new DDC will begin,” he said.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
