Srinagar, Feb 20: In a significant move aimed at bolstering the authority of District Development Councils (DDCs) and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of Zila Parishads, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has introduced amendments to the Panchayati Raj Rules (1996). These amendments seek to streamline the process of removing Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons while granting CEOs enhanced powers in planning and administration.
Under the amendments, DDC members will be empowered through clear guidelines for the removal of Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons. A notice expressing the intent to propose a motion for removal must be signed by at least two-thirds of the elected Council members and personally delivered to the Deputy Commissioners by two elected DDC members.
The motion for removal must be addressed within 15 working days from the delivery date. The Chairperson will preside over the meeting if the motion is against the Vice Chairperson, and vice versa. Notably, voting for removal will be conducted openly, with members required to document their name and signature on the back of the ballot paper.
“If the motion garners two-thirds majority support, the concerned Chairperson or Vice Chairperson will lose their position, resulting in a vacant post. However, failure of the motion will render further removal notices invalid for one year,” as per the amendment.
Meanwhile, the role of the Chief Executive Officer (Additional District Development Commissioner) has been expanded to include prompt implementation of all DDC projects and development plans. They will oversee project implementation for DDCs, Block Development Councils (BDCs), and Halqa Panchayats, as well as manage related documents and financial transactions.
Furthermore, CEOs will define responsibilities, supervise, and control officers and officials working under the DDC, ensuring efficient functioning of local governance in Jammu and Kashmir. These amendments are aimed at fostering clarity, transparency, and efficiency within the local governance structure.
