Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Jan 3: The absence of municipal elections in Jharkhand has stalled development and deprived Mango and Jugsalai of crucial central government funds for decades. Despite 24 years since Jharkhand’s formation, elections for the Mango and Jugsalai Municipal Councils remain unheld, leaving approximately 4.5 lakh residents without their democratic “third vote.”
Mango and Jugsalai, along with the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC), have collectively faced a staggering loss of Rs 14,400 crore over 24 years due to the lack of municipal elections. Each year, these areas lose about Rs 600 crore in central funding meant for urban development.
Suresh Yadav, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of Mango Municipal Corporation, highlighted the impact, stating, “Once elections are held, residents will not only gain representation but also access funds that will drive development in the area.”
Development projects stalled
Critical infrastructure projects have been severely affected, including road and drain construction, parks, garbage disposal plants, transport systems, and drinking water facilities. Without elections, Mango and Jugsalai cannot access funds for these essential services.
Meanwhile, Seraikela-Kharsawan has also faced challenges. While Adityapur Municipal Corporation and Kapali initially received funds after elections, the absence of elections since April 2023 has stalled further allocations.
Mango: A missed opportunity
Formed in 2017, Mango Municipal Corporation has yet to hold its first elections. Had elections taken place, the area could have accessed Rs. 250 crore annually. The delay stems from the lack of a reservation survey for backward classes, a prerequisite for the elections.
The state government has initiated a triple-test survey, with house-to-house data collection underway. Yadav expressed optimism, stating, “The election process is gaining momentum. Once completed, residents will elect their Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and 35 ward councillors, bringing long-overdue representation and development.”
Jugsalai faces similar fate
Jugsalai Municipal Council, also established in 2017, suffers from the same neglect. Without elections, it loses Rs 50 crore annually in central funds. Elections here would allow residents to choose their Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and 25 ward councilors, ensuring their participation in governance and access to development funds.
JNAC and industrial township
The JNAC has yet to transition into a municipal body. Two years ago, the state government announced plans for an industrial township, but the proposal remains unrealized. This delay deprives the area of an additional Rs 300 crore annually from central allocations.
Hope on the horizon
Efforts are now underway to expedite the election process across these municipal bodies. Once completed, these elections will unlock long-stalled funds, ushering in an era of development for Mango, Jugsalai, and other affected areas.
Residents and officials alike are hopeful for swift action. “The sooner elections are conducted, the sooner these areas can receive the funds they deserve and the development they have long awaited,” emphasized Yadav.
The government’s focus on completing the reservation survey and holding elections marks a significant step toward resolving the region’s prolonged governance and development issues.
