The Goa Government should seriously ponder on whether to continue with the Zilla Panchayats. It will cost the tax payer around a whopping two crores to conduct those next elections which are now due in March.
Infact for a very small State like Goa there was no justification to set up the Zilla Panchayats which have proven to be only an unnecessary financial burden which a cash strapped Goa could do without. Ever since the Zilla Panchayats were formed in 2000 they have been allocated no powers with those elected members just holding ornamental positions. Despite their long legal battle before the High Court the government has not relented in devolving powers to this elected body. The Zilla Panchayats have ended up as white elephants. Keeping in mind the mantra of less government and more governance it may be appropriate to consider doing away with this unnecessary extra layer – Zilla Panchayats. Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: [email protected] Or [email protected] You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires
