Panchayat head suspended for negligence

Chamba Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal has ordered the suspension of Kanchana Kumari, pradhan of Dulara Gram Panchayat under Development Block Mehla, for negligence in performing her official duties.

The suspension has been carried out with immediate effect under the powers conferred by Section 131(1)(b) of the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994 and the rules framed thereunder.

According to the official order, Kanchana Kumari was found absent from Gram Sabha meetings without prior notice and failed to execute routine panchayat work and payments in a timely manner.

A showcause notice was issued to her on April 8 seeking an explanation for these irregularities. However, her response submitted on April 24 was deemed unsatisfactory and contrary to facts. Following this, the DC issued an immediate suspension order and directed Kanchana Kumari to hand over the official seal of the panchayat, along with all records, funds and property related to the gram panchayat, to the Panchayat Secretary without delay.

This move is aimed at ensuring accountability and smooth functioning of grassroots governance in the region.