CPI(M) warns against undermining democratic processes in local body elections

The CPI(M) has accused the State government of undermining democratic processes in the local body elections.

Addressing the media in Vijayawada on Wednesday, party State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao alleged that opposition party candidates had been prevented from filing nominations at several places. He demanded that candidates be allowed to file nominations afresh, wherever irregularities took place.

Questioning the claims of unanimous victories, he alleged that such outcomes had been secured through coercion rather than public support. He accused the TDP-led government of following practices similar to those adopted by the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), and warned of political consequences if democratic norms continued to be disregarded.

The CPI(M) released its manifesto for the local body elections scheduled for October 28 and November 3. The document called for restoring financial autonomy and administrative powers of panchayats, municipalities and other local institutions, alleging that successive governments had reduced elected representatives to ceremonial positions.

The party demanded that 40% of the State’s own revenue be allocated to the local bodies and that grants be transferred without conditions. It sought the repeal of G.O.s 673 and 74, withdrawal of unilateral moves to privatise municipal services, and integration of ward and village secretariats with the local bodies. It also called for regularisation of contract and outsourcing employees, and the release of SC/ST sub-plan funds.

The party appealed to the voters to support the candidates backed by the Left parties and civil society organisations, and strengthen grassroots democracy.