Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government is mulling over stripping some of the powers of secretaries of local self-governing bodies.
The decision comes in the aftermath of suicide of NRI investor at the CPM-ruling Anthoor Municipality.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan explained to the Assembly of the government’s plans in reply to an adjournment motion called by the Opposition on Monday.
While throwing his weight behind the local CPM leadership, the Chief Minister said as per the Kerala Municipal and Panchayati Raj Act only the secretary of a civic body has powers regarding building rules.
In the event of objections to decisions taken by secretaries, the local civic body can move an appeal only before the tribunal meant for local bodies, the Chief Minister said.
“The government is planning to limit the power of a civic body secretary over recommendation of a technical expert,” Vijayan is quoted as saying. Currently, a secretary can bypass recommendations of an engineer.
The government would ensure secretaries study applications for permits in one-go, rather than posting queries in a phased manner, causing delay to sanction.