Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: The ongoing tussle over the Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) rules remains unresolved, with several departments yet to provide their views. The Jharkhand High Court will hear the matter on Wednesday, making the session crucial as tenders and allocations for sand ghats and minor minerals remain stayed by the court. The government wants an early resolution, but progress has been hindered by delays in finalizing the rules.
Rules Still Stuck in Process
Due to multiple errors and pending clarifications, the chances of the PESA rules being approved in Wednesday’s cabinet meeting are slim. Officials confirmed that seven departments are yet to submit their opinions. Recently, Chief Minister Hemant Soren chaired a meeting with departmental secretaries on the pending draft. Following his instructions, the Panchayati Raj Department shortened the draft rules from 31 pages to 23.
Impact on Policy Decisions
The delay has slowed down key governance measures, particularly the allocation of sand ghats and minor mineral resources, which cannot proceed until the PESA framework is finalized. The High Court’s intervention has further added pressure on the state to address the pending gaps quickly.