Hyderabad: The State government reportedly issued an ordinance giving legality to the Municipalities Bill-2019 after implementing suggestions from the Governor.
According to informed sources, Governor ESL Narasimhan initially returned the related file declining assent to the Municipalities Bill 2019 passed in the special session of the Assembly. The Governor sought some changes and made necessary suggestions to be made in the Bill. The Governor reportedly raised objection to the Bill and made some changes with regard to powers to the government to hold elections for civic bodies.
Stating that some provisions in the Municipalities Bill were against the norms of Constitution, the Governor objected the State government taking powers of Election Commission on determining the dates of conduct of elections. He also faulted the decision of the State government empowering the District Collectors to remove elected people’s representatives like sarpanches and ward members, who failed to protect 85% saplings under Haritha Haaram program.
Accordingly, the government has made necessary changes and passed an ordinance, it is learnt. As the Assembly was prorogues, the government issued ordinance, which will be forwarded to the Union government for assent. The Municipalities Bill will become a law after the Centre approved the ordinance.
It may be mentioned here that the State government had formulated the new Municipal Act with revolutionary changes for the benefit of the common man like providing basic facilities and to improve the living standards of the people. The Municipal Bill has sensational provisions like registration of 75 yards plot for one rupee for the poor and property tax of Rs 100. It also has a provision of demolition of illegal constructions without a notice. Apparently, these provisions evoked severe criticism from the Opposition Congress and BJP.
The government has geared up for holding the polls for civic bodies in August. The Assembly and Council, during special session and passed the Municipalities Bill 2019 to check corruption, deliver transparent services and push growth in the municipalities. (NSS)
