LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT

INTRODUCTION

The working of the Local self-Government vests in the various statutory bodies enjoying local autonomy. The progress made by these institutions could be grouped in three spheres. Firstly, in respect of constitution, from fully or partly nominated bodies, they have become entirely elective, though there is a provision for nomination by the State of a member in case of necessity. Secondly, in regard to their franchise which has reached the widest possible limit, viz., universal adult franchise through an enactment so that a person who (a) is a citizen of India, (b) has attained the age of 21 years and (c) has the requisite residence, business premises or taxation qualification, is now entitled to be enrolled as a voter. The Act No. XVI of 1958 has provided for the reservation of women, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes under certain conditions. Thirdly, wider and wider powers have been conferred upon local bodies and their needs of administration of areas under their jurisdiction have been met with.

Another important point in this connection is that before reorganisation of States, the Slate Government used to control these. local self-government institutions. This power was subsequently delegated to the Divisional Commissioner, Nagpur Division, whose jurisdiction extends over the district of Akola also. The Maharashtra Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis Act could be regarded as an important step in the democratic decentralisation of Governmental responsibilities. The Act replaced the former District Boards and Janpad Sabhas, by bodies like the Zilla Parishads with much more powers.

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