The growing criminalisation of politics seeks to silence the voice of
democracy. The brutal attack on Gram Sabha activist Mr. C.S. Barretto of
Assagao village has to be condemned as an attack on democracy. It is
distressing and shameful that when we look from politicians to goons, we find
it increasingly difficult to say which is which.
Shame!
- Pravin Sabnis
in response to
PRESS RELEASE
The Centre for Panchayat Raj condemns the brutal attack on Gram Sabha activist
Mr. C.S. Barretto of Assagao village and demands a thorough inquiry from the
government to nail the culprits involved in such criminal acts. The attack on
Mr. Barretto only goes to prove the growing criminalisation in the Village
Panchayats with the active support from the government authorities that are
turning a blind eye to repeated complaints about irregularities and illegaties
from the public. The government authorities have more than once been proved
involved in subverting village democracy whether it be in the conduct of
no-confidence motions or the elections to the vacant posts of Sarpanch and Dy.
Sarpanch in the Village Panchayats. The government authorities have not
initiated any steps to ensure that elected representatives declare their
private assets before taking charge of public office. Widespread corruption and
commission raj has been allowed to flourish with
the active collaboration
of the government authorities. This is then used by the very government as an
excuse not to devolve the due opowers and responsibilities to the local bodies.
CPR has been demanding that adequate measures for ensuring transparency and
accountability are put in place by empowering the Gram Sabhas to bring the
criminal activities in the villages under control.
Soter D'Souza, Director - Centre For Panchayati Raj - Peaceful Society
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