Chaos marked the maiden meeting of the newly constituted Chikkamagaluru zilla panchayat held here on Thursday.

As soon as the meeting began, the Congress took exception to the conduct of the members on the day of election of the ZP president and vice president. They accused the zilla panchayat chief executive officer of allowing “misuse” of the ZP auditorium. They sought to know why the media was invited for the met. The members said that the IAS officers should conduct themselves amiably.

Even as the officials of various departments began introducing themselves to the newly elected members, the latter asked the officials to provide details of the development works executed during 2015-16.

They also sought information on the expenditure incurred on such projects.
The members asked the officials to take steps to ensure availability of fertilisers in view of the onset of rains.  The meeting discussed the progress made by Agriculture, Health, Education, Animal Husbandry and other departments. ZP president Chaitrashree asked the officials to come prepared for the meeting. Vice President N S Ramaswamy said that all members, cutting across party lines, should work towards progress.

He suggested that in case of shortage of funds, a delegation from the ZP should approach the government seeking money.

The administrative staff of the zilla panchayat felicitated the newly elected president and vice president. When they wanted to felicitate the Congress members, they rejected the offer citing drought situation in the state.

The meeting which started at 11.45 am, went on till 7.30 pm, except for 30 minutes lunch break in the afternoon.