Panchayats in Karnataka will be allowed to use distinctive symbols: Priyank Kharge

Bengaluru: Karnataka Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Priyank Kharge on Sunday said that gram, taluk and zilla panchayats across the state would henceforth be allowed to adopt and use their own distinctive emblems.

Terming the government’s decision ‘a progressive step’ towards empowering grassroots administration, Priyank said, “This will enable them to function with greater dignity, and give them a distinct identity. This move is aimed at empowering local self-government.”

Pointing out that the state government’s decision was in concord with the provisions of Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act, 1993, Priyank said, “Section Six of the Act stipulates that Gram Panchayat is a corporate body, allowing them to adopt a common seal or emblem in recognition of panchayats’ authority and autonomy. The department has already issued an order permitting all panchayats to use separate emblems.”

However, the order specifies that only incumbent elected representatives – presidents, vice-presidents, and members – can use the emblem on their visiting cards for the duration of their term in office. Former presidents and members of panchayats, however, will not be allowed use of the emblems, and use of these emblems for unofficial reasons will invite disciplinary action.

Priyank said that the decision allowing panchayats to use their own emblems marked the fulfilment of a promise he had made at a meeting of the State Federation of Gram Panchayat Members.