LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT

INTRODUCTION

THE LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT IN THE DISTRICT vests in the various statutory bodies enjoying autonomy in different degrees. The progress of these institutions could be marked in three ways. Firstly, in regard to their constitution, from fully or partially nominated bodies, they have now become entirely elective, though there is a provision of nomination by the Government of a few members. Secondly, in regard to their franchise, it has reached the widest limit viz., universal adult franchise, through an enactment so that every person who (i) is a citizen of India and (ii) has attained the age of 21 years of age is now entitled to be enrolled as a voter. Before 1958, there was no provision for the reservation of seats for women, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. Act XVI of 1958 has now provided for the reservation for women, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. Thirdly, wider and wider powers have been gradually conferred on local bodies and their needs for the administration of areas under their jurisdiction have been met with.

As regards the controlling authority, before the reorganisation of the States the State Government used to exercise the control. Afterwards this power was delegated to the Commissioners of the division. Now Divisional Commissioner, Nagpur Division, supervises these institutions in the Vidarbha region of which Bhandara district forms part.

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