"I request you to take effective steps to strengthen Panchayti Raj system in the state," BJP leader and MP Rajnath Singh said in a letter addressed to the prime minister today.
"If the Centre is committed to strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions all over India then the 73rd amendment should be applicable to Jammu and Kashmir as well," Singh said in the letter, copies of which were given to the media.
This step will give financial autonomy to Panchayats in the state and also help them in fighting terror in the region, he claimed.
"Security and financial autonomy are the most important instruments to nurture democracy at the grassroot level in a state like Jammu and Kashmir," he said.
He alleged lack of implementation of the 73rd amendment in Jammu and Kashmir had "resulted in misappropriation of funds as the government lacks accountability and transparency in distribution of funds."
He also demanded proper security for Sarpanches and panches in view of recent attacks on them.
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"Since peace and security are critical issues in restoring normalcy in the state, the onus lies on the Centre to act against these forces operating in the Valley," the MP said.
"The Centre needs to take proactive measures to protect the life and dignity of elected representatives of state Panchayat bodies," he said.