Jharkhand cabinet approves the PESA Rules
Ranchi: On one hand, Local Self-Government Day is being celebrated on December 23rd and 24th. On the other hand, the Hemant government has given the green light to the PESA Rules in the cabinet meeting to strengthen local self-governance. City and Local Guide
The issue was deliberated upon for almost an hour in the cabinet meeting held on Tuesday. During this time, there was also a round of consultations. The CM listened to and understood all the points seriously.
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Deepika Pandey Singh presented the PESA Rules proposal in the cabinet. She said that there will be only one Gram Sabha in every revenue village. The number of committees doesn’t matter. Everyone agreed on this.
Minister Chamra Linda also agreed to this. Accepting the suggestions of the ministers, these PESA Rules have been passed. On the completion of 25 years of Jharkhand’s formation, it has been dedicated to Dishom Guru.
Gram Sabha will get rights
The Panchayati Raj Secretary said that under these rules, the Gram Sabha will be given power along with responsibility in certain areas. The role of the Gram Sabha has been defined in mining, land acquisition, and development schemes. The Gram Sabha will also have a role in the management of water resources in the villages.
The Gram Sabha will also have control over minor forest produce. This will empower the Gram Sabha. The Gram Sabha will also play a crucial role in the management of health centers and schools in that area. All revenue villages will remain the same.
PESA Rules: Rights granted to Gram Sabha, know 10 key points
Notification of Gram Sabha
• The Panchayati Raj Department will notify it.
• The DC will notify the Gram Sabha in the Scheduled Areas.
• After public notice and objections, the Gram Sabha will become functional.
Rights over minor minerals
• Gram Sabha will have rights over sand, gravel, and soil.
• Complete control over Grade One ghats (riverbanks).
• Revenue generated from sand will be spent on the development of the village.
Control over water bodies
• Gram Sabha will have control over water bodies less than one hectare in size. • Decision-making regarding fisheries and fish utilization.
Liquor Shop
• Liquor shops will only open with the permission of the Gram Sabha (village council).
Hearing of Minor Offenses
• Hearing of offenses such as bull theft, cow theft, and house theft.
• Punishment will be meted out under the traditional justice system.
• Fines up to two thousand rupees.
Notification of Arrest
• The police must inform the Gram Sabha upon the arrest of any person.
Schools and Health Centers
• The Gram Sabha will monitor schools and health centers.
• Recommendations for action will be made in case of absence of doctors and teachers.
Quorum
• The presence of one-third of the members is mandatory for a meeting.
• Support of more than 50% of the members is required.
Gram Sabha Meeting
• The meeting will be held according to a fixed procedure.
• Voting will take place if a decision cannot be reached by consensus.
Dispute Resolution
• The Deputy Commissioner will deliver a verdict within a specified timeframe.
