Taking cognizance of past cases where Sarpanch “patis” and “pradhan patis” took over the responsibilities of their wives, the state government has asked women representatives not to delegate their job to family persons under any circumstances.
New orders
Those who fail to abide by the new government orders will be subject to action under Article 38 of the Panchayat Raj Act, an official press release from the government said.
Rajasthan govetnment Panchayat Raj Minister Bharat Singh said there have been reports that husbands or other relatives interfere in panchayat activities and adorn the chair as if they and not their wives are the elected representatives.
The minister has asked all the newly elected women Sarpanch and Pradhans in the state to perform their duties themselves.
Dereliction of duty
Not doing so will be considered as “dereliction of duty” and action will be taken against women chairperson or office-bearer concerned, the release said.
Officials aiding or abetting in violation of this directive will also have to face action, the minister added.
(Published 01 March 2010, 17:40 IST)
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