Batch of writs on GHMC wards closed

Hyderabad: The decision of the GHMC to revert to strength of 150 wards came up in batch of writ pleas before Justice C V Nagarjuna Reddy of the High Court at Hyderabad on Thursday.

The judge, however, closed the said writ petitions and left it open to the residents to approach the court afresh. The petitioners had questioned the decision of the government to retain 150 wards as contrary to the relevant Rules.

Detailing the background, the petitioners pointed out how the authorities had gone to town seeking extension of time for conduct of elections on the ground of having to increase the number of wards to 200 as they wanted to ensure better governance at the grass root level.

“A claim was made that during delimitation it was found that it was difficult to identify natural boundaries and there was shortage of staff. A government which promises good governance and facilities in the name of smart cities and world class infrastructure cannot take a stand that there are not enough number of staff.” the petitioner contended.

The petitioner further contended that for extraneous reasons, the strength was sought to be reduced. This was against the principles of good governance which is fundamental right of the civilians. The whole concept of adequate representation to the various marginalised sections would also be affected.

The State Advocate General Ramakrishna Reddy, however, brought to the notice of the court that the Rules had since been amended. However since the rules had not been challenged the judge pointed out that it could not adjudicate the matter. The judge then closed the writ pleas with option for the petitioners to file fresh writ pleas if so advised.