Srinagar, Sep 24: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said he would discuss the issue of providing security to Panchayat members at the next meeting of the Unified Headquarters to ensure their safety and smooth functioning.
Condemning the killing of a Panch last night, the Chief Minister termed the act “heinous and against public cause.” Omar conveyed his grief and sympathy to the bereaved family.
The Chief Minister said establishment of a powerful and functional Panchayati Raj in the state is his Government’s commitment.
All efforts would be made to ensure safety of Panchs and Sarpanchs and provide them conducive atmosphere to work for the good of people, he said.
Meanwhile, officials in the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj department said they had not received any resignation from grassroot-level representatives in the wake of yesterday’s killing.
“We have not received any resignation,” an official of the department said.
Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Ali Muhammad Sagar, has condemned the killing of Naib-Sarpanch of Nowpora, Muhammad Shafi Teli.
In his condolence message, the Minister said this kind of act is against public cause. He said that with the establishment of a vibrant Panchayat Raj system effective decentralization of powers was done and the people who are trying to disrupt the same are acting against the public cause.
Sagar conveyed his grief and sympathy to the bereaved family and prayed for peace to the departed soul.

Lastupdate on : Mon, 24 Sep 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 24 Sep 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 25 Sep 2012 00:00:00 IST