VELLORE: The members of the district Panchayat Council have appealed to the district Panchayat chairperson, who is also the chairperson of the district Planning Committee, to consider their views and suggestions before finalising any agenda.
A plea in this regard was made by the members of the panchayat council at the ordinary meeting that was convened on Thursday here. The meeting was chaired by panchayat chairperson Dr Leela Subramanian.
The members, representing the 40 wards in the Panchayat Council, felt that since the Planning Committee dealt with schemes and plans pertaining to the development of the entire district, it would be better if their suggestions and views were also taken into consideration by the planning committee.
Most of the Council members complained that they were being kept in dark about the government functions such as the ‘jamabandhi’ as the officials seldom sent invitations or information to them in tbis regard.
The chairperson, Leela Subramanian while trying to pacify the agitated members, said that she would take up the issue with the district administration and sort it out. The district secretary of the Council Annamalai said that a circular had already been issued to all departments in this regard.
Some members also raised queries on whether the members could inspect government schemes such as the noon meal centres.
The members also wanted to know whether the district Panchayat could fund computers and other peripherals for schools.
Further, they also wanted the Panchayat to organise regular inspection camps in all the blocks to review onthe going works, understand the ongoing schemes and to develop a good rapport with government officials.
Complaints about the poor quality of rice supplied in the Public Distribution System outlets were also raised by a member of the council. Another member wanted to know whether the proposal to instal a statue of former Chief Minister MGR at the district Panchayat office premises would see the light of day.
Suggestions to upgrade some schools in many pockets of the district, filling up vacant posts of teachers in schools, expediting the opening of veterinary dispensaries and laying of new road works were emphasised by the members.