ZP forum demands full devolution of power

Imphal, Dec 27: A new forum of Zilla parishad bodies in the state was floated today at a mega meeting of ZP members held at Hotel Imphal today . According to reports the meeting was attended by 53 ZP members, six adhyaksha and president of the state Panchayat Parishad and adopted several resolutions demanding full devolution of power to these local bodies. Calling the state government for prompt devolution of power to the Zilla Parishad, the meeting condemned the fact that even though the autonomous district councils in the hill districts have been granted full devolution of power , similar measures for the Zilla Parishad in the valley districts are still kept in the backburner . The meeting further passed a resolution in favour on demanding regular salaries for the members of the Zilla Parishad, whose values are to be kept on par with the current salaries of ADC members, in lieu of the honorarium currently enjoyed by them. In case the state government refrains from granting its demands, the forum warned that all members of the Zilla Parishads and other local bodies in the rural area will not extend support to the candidates forwarded by the ruling parties in the forthcoming Parliamentary elections. It further warned that cooperation from the side of the local bodies should not expected by the government in further state functions.