Election to local bodies on party lines Now that ordinance is to be promulgated for Zillla Parishad elections are causing tremors in some parties. There should have been public debate preceding such a sudden strong measure of legislation The ruling party is trying to exploit and cash on their popularity. Nevertheless such a proposal was in the air for quiet sometime now. It is no secret whether it be Municpal, panchayat or zilla elections the main political parties were directly or indirectly always supporting, canvassing or even providing strong financial support to the proxies. Why are parties crying hoarse now? Don’t we hear that certain panchayats , municipalities are having allegiance to MLA`s, Ministers or parties and they interfere and destabilize local bodies uncomfortable to their cause in carrying their special, motivated agenda.? Standing for elections as independents is an option, when independents with party backing have been successful at assembly elections turning the apple cart. After the elections the members through political chicanery, inducements, threats are compelled to show allegiance to powers that be? It may only cost more to contest and average person may not find it easy with party entrants. The atmosphere at local level will be vitiated by political poison, further introducing local animosities, neighborhood wars due to party affiliations, As of now these bodies are constantly shifting allegiance thus creating instability of functioning at this micro level. With ordinance it will only confirm what always existed in reality and on the ground, but none wants to admit it. The control is intended to be further concentrated in the hands of legislators. Even to- day most of these bodies are left rudderless by constant interference making these bodies redundant or subservient to the will of the legislators or parties in power. May be it will lead to stability but at what costs?
Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
