LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT

INTRODUCTION

THE LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT VESTS IN THE VARIOUS BODIES, SUCH AS Municipalities, panchayat samitis and zilla parishads, enjoying local autonomy in different degrees. The progress of these institutions could be noted in three ways. Firstly, they are now entirely elective bodies although there is a provision in the law for the nomination of a member by the State in case of necessity. Secondly, in regard to their franchise which is based on the principle of 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 or taxation qualification is entitled to be enrolled as a voter. From 1958 onwards, reservation of seats has been provided for women, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes under certain circumstances. Thirdly, wider powers have been conferred upon these local bodies and the needs for the administration of areas under their charge have been met with.

Another landmark in the reforms in the history of local self-government relates to the controlling power over these institutions. Prior to the reorganisation of States, the State Government used to control these bodies, but afterwards these powers were delegated to the Director of Municipal Administration. Municipalities in the districts are now governed under the Maharashtra Municipalities Act, 1965.

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