Sri Vijaya Puram, July 17:The National President of the Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Sangathan (RGPRS), Dr. Sunil Panwar, and the organisation’s National General Secretary, Mr. Inamul Hasan, held a meeting with the Chairperson of the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC), Mrs. Vasanta, Senior Vice-Chairperson Mr. Vettrivelu, along with present and former councillors, at the PBMC office during their visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
During the meeting, the PBMC Chairperson, Senior Vice-Chairperson, and councillors discussed various issues and challenges concerning the Municipal Council and local self-governance. They also submitted a memorandum to Dr. Sunil Panwar and Mr. Inamul Hasan highlighting several public interest issues and local administrative concerns.
A key issue raised during the discussion was the tenure of Municipal Councils in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The representatives pointed out that while Municipal Councils in most Indian States have a five-year tenure, the tenure of the Municipal Council in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is only one year. They expressed concern that such a short tenure affects democratic governance and the stability of local administration.
On the occasion, PBMC Chairperson Smt. Vasanta Mushraman felicitated Dr. Sunil Panwar by presenting him with a traditional shawl, while Senior Vice-Chairperson Mr. Vettrivelu honoured National General Secretary Mr. Inamul Hasan in a similar manner. Other present and former councillors also welcomed and felicitated the visiting leaders with shawls.
Responding to the concerns, Dr. Sunil Panwar assured the gathering that the issues and suggestions raised by the elected representatives would be taken up with the appropriate authorities. He said the Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Sangathan remains committed to strengthening local self-governance and addressing public issues through effective representation.
The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere, with participants reaffirming their commitment to strengthening democratic values, empowering local bodies, and working collectively in the interest of the public.
