Saurabh Adhikari & Neeraj
Sri Viaya Puram, Dec. 18: Mr. Shivananand Bairagi, former Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Pahalgaon, North and Middle Andaman, has emerged victorious in a legal battle challenging the no-confidence motion passed against him. The Kolkata High Court Circuit Bench at Port Blair recently ruled in his favour, deeming the motion unconstitutional and a violation of Panchayati Raj regulations.
The no-confidence motion, which was moved against Mr. Bairagi, allegedly bypassed essential legal protocols outlined under the Panchayati Raj Regulation and constitutional provisions. Speaking to the media, Mr. Bairagi explained that the process not only disregarded established norms but also failed to consider his side of the argument. “The administration officials involved in this process did not follow constitutional guidelines or the Panchayati Raj rules,” he said.
Determined to fight this injustice, Mr. Bairagi consulted Vikalp, a legal consultancy in Port Blair. Advocate S. Mini, nominated by the consultancy, represented his case in the Kolkata High Court Circuit Bench. On December 13, 2024, the court issued a landmark judgment, nullifying the no-confidence motion and directing the Executive Officer to reinstate Mr. Bairagi as Pradhan within four weeks after rectifying the irregularities.
“This judgment is not just my victory; it is a historic day for Panchayati Raj institutions across Andaman and Nicobar Islands,” Mr. Bairagi remarked. He emphasized that the ruling sends a strong message to the administration to uphold democratic principles and adhere to constitutional processes.
Mr. Bairagi acknowledged the support of his community, family, and legal team, particularly the main director of Vikalp, Mr. Sanjay Balan, and Advocate Mini. “This victory is a testament to our collective fight for justice and the rights enshrined in the 73rd Amendment of the Constitution,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the case, Mr. Bairagi highlighted systemic issues in the administration’s approach to Panchayati Raj institutions. He accused certain officials of trying to derail decentralization efforts and undermine elected representatives. “This was an attempt to break our morale, but we have shown that we stand firm in our fight for constitutional rights,” he stated.
The ruling has energized elected representatives across the islands, reaffirming their rights and responsibilities under the Panchayati Raj framework. Mr. Bairagi expressed hope that the verdict would inspire young leaders to join politics with a focus on transparency and public welfare.
“This decision upholds the principles of democracy and justice, ensuring that no elected representative is unlawfully targeted in the future,” he concluded.
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