PANJIM, JAN 20
Pilerne Citizens Forum, on behalf of the villagers, has filed a petition before the Director of Panchayats praying that the gram sabha held on November 29, 2008 be declared null and void.
PCF has argued that the procedure adopted in appointing the village committee at the gram sabha was undemocratic and unfair. It has presented evidence to show that five of the sixteen members who were arbitrarily appointed by the sarpanch were not even present at the meeting.
It further argued that the gram sabha was convened in breach of the mandatory provisions and requirements as stipulated under the Goa Panchayati Raj Act.
The petition states that under section 5(8) of the Act, it is mandatory that the Block Development Officer remains present for the gram sabha meeting. PCF claims there was no BDO present at the November 29 meeting.
It further maintains that earlier on April 27, 2008 the VP had convened the meeting without the presence of the BDO after which the DoP took note and asked panchayat not to repeat the lapse.
PCF said the VP has violated the mandated procedure for the second time and prayed for disqualification of the sarpanch. The hearing for the case has been called for January 23.
