Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 20: Expressing their serious concern over the failure of the Government to empower Panchayats in the State and not fielding any female candidate by political parties in the ensuing MLCs elections among Panchs and Sarpanchs under Panchayat quota, the Women Wing of All J&K Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) today warned to boycott the elections.
This was stated by Vimla Devi, Sarpanch and provincial president of the Wing while talking to reporters here today. Mrs Devi, who was flanked by other members of the organization accused State Government as well as all political parties of ignoring women Panchayat representatives.
“It is unfortunate that none of the political parties in the State have given mandate to any female elected Panch or Sarpanch for the ensuing MLCs elections despite the fact that these seats fall under Panchayat quota’’, Mrs Devi said, adding “this shows no political party in the State is interested in empowering the women”.
She demanded reservation be given to women representatives under Panchayat quota. She also reiterated the demand made by her parent organisation regarding grant of honorarium, extension of 73rd Amendment and security to the elected Panchs and Sarpanchs. She alleged that neither the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah nor the Panchayati Raj Minister, Ali Mohammed Sagar are taking steps to build the confidence of Panchayat members.
She said despite family constraint, social bindings and other constraints the women of the State took part in the Panchayat elections on the assurance of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah that his Government would empower the Panchayats which in turn would lead to empowerment of women and the stoic silence maintained by the Chief Minister is not only unfortunate but also shows that he has betrayed the people.
She urged the Chief Minister to keep his promise regarding empowerment of Panchayats in the State by implementing 73rd Amendment of Indian Constitution, paying honorarium to Sarpanchs and panchs and providing security to them.
Follow our WhatsApp channel