The Administration’s rejection of the MC’s agenda to introduce battery-operated vehicles for Sector 17 has once again triggered a debate on the implementation of 74th Amendment in the city.

The constitutional amendment ensure more powers to the civic bodies.

The city has witnessed a prolonged tussle for power between the elected members of the Municipal Corporation and the UT Administration officials.

At present, there is a division of functions, with 12 of these under the purview of the MC.

Councillor Dr A P Sanwaria says the 74th Amendment would eventually have to be implemented.

“Decisions pertaining to civic issues should be left to the local government. At present, all revenue earning departments are with the Administration,” he says.

“It happens frequently that the MC House passes an agenda and the Administration rejects it. The elected representatives should be given more power,” he adds.

Another councillor Jatinder Bhatia says with the city under the purview of the Central government, the amendment should be implemented first.

“It would empower the elected representatives who are answerable to the people. When residents approach us with their problems, we are rendered powerless at times.”

Mayor Kamlesh says, “We are asked to impose taxes on the residents when the revenue does not come to us. The decisions taken by the MC are rejected by the Administration.”

“It is essential that the 74th Amendment be implemented,” the Mayor adds.

However, some feel that the councillors are elected by getting merely 2,000 to 3,000 votes and do not represent a large number of people.

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