AJKPC hails extension of 73rd constitutional amendment to J&K

The All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) today termed as "historic" the decision to extend the 73rd constitutional amendment empowering panchayati raj institutions to the state, and said it was the result of the movement of 33,000 panches and sarpanches.
"It as a historic decision which would script a new era of democracy and empower basic democratic units in the state. The passage of the bill in the Assembly is the result of the continuous and dedicated movement of 33,000 panchayat members led by AJKPC," outfit president Anil Sharma told reporters here today.
Sharma said that the "AJKPC acknowledges and appreciates the role of Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, other senior leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad and Saifudin Soz, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for their support for the cause".

The AJKPC demanded all provisions of the act be implemented properly in the state.
Elaborating on their future course of action, Sharma said the organisation would continue to work for strengthening the panchayati raj institutions in the state, and keep a vigil on the working of the state government and administration.
Meanwhile, some ruling National Conference leaders in a joint statement said the move "will help transform development scenario in rural areas in a big way with percolation of funds under various centrally-sponsored schemes".

They said holding of panchayat elections was a most significant milestone of the NC-led government to empower rural people and making them real fountain head of power.

They also hailed the passage of various amendment bills by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislature, describing these as path-breaking initiatives to combat corruption, ensuring extension of higher education to remote areas, and instilling sense of security among women.
They described Jammu and Kashmir Corruption (Amendment) Bill, Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, Paramedical Council Bill, Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill, Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, and Universities (Amendment) Bill as most important legislations, reflecting earnestness of the government in assuaging the aspirations of different segments of the society.