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Gurgaon civic body approves setting up ward committees, says will improve public participation in governance. But RWAs are sceptical – here’s why.
['Abhimanyu Hazarika', 'Abhimanyu Hazarika Is A Senior Correspondent With The Indian Express', 'Based In Gurgaon. He Covers Southern Haryana.', 'Education - Post-Graduate Diploma In Print Media', 'Asian College Of Journalism', 'Class Of', '- B.A.', 'Hons', 'Liberal Arts With A Major In Political Science', 'Symbiosis School For Liberal Arts']
The Indian Express
The Haryana Municipal Citizens’ Participation Act, 2008 sought to “institutionalize citizens’ participation in municipal functions” by creating “area sabhas” with representation from various sections of society, which would ensure decentralised problem-solving and greater public involvement in municipal affairs.
“The ward committees will prioritise local development works, monitor sanitation arrangements, and flag issues concerning street lights, roads, water supply, sewerage and other basic amenities.
Story continues below this adResidents of Gurgaon, however, expressed apprehensions about the functioning of ward committees, whose record of performance has not been encouraging.
“Residents of Gurgaon were fed up of ward committees due to their non-performance.
Story continues below this ad“They (ward committees) will help councillors streamline and better monitor work; plus, they will be held accountable for their wards.