'Take steps to fortify Panchayat Raj bodies'

III Finance Commission headed by A G Kodgi recommends in its final report

An officials of Zilla Panchayat feels that if at all the report is implemented as it is in its pristine form, then one can expect bright future for Panchayat Raj system in the State.
The Committee has said that State Government must re-look into the fact of considering MLA, MLC and MPs as members of Zilla Panchayat. Committee has said that ZP must be given complete responsibility of implementing certain programmes of Centre and the State on priority basis.

It says that Divisional Commissioner must be appointed as the Ombudsman for Zilla Panchayat, Town Municipal Council and the City Corporation.

Deputy Commissioner must be appointed as the Ombudsman for Taluk Panchayat and Town Panchayat.

Likewise, Sub Divisional Officer must serve as the Ombudsman for Gram Panchayat and Town Panchayat.

The Committee has recommended that Taluk Panchayat must be made responsible for the implementation of programmes meant for TPs and unnecessary interference of various organisations in this regard must not be allowed.

Apart from this, the government must also provide conducive atmosphere for the independent management of funds that flow to Taluk Panchayat.

Other recommendations

Cabinet Minister’s rank for ZP President, hike in honourarium for ZP and TP Presidents and Vice-Presidents, 5 years term for GP President and Vice-President are some of the other recommendations of the Committee.