The Jammu And Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Act, 2024, published on 12th February, extends the reservation in representation to OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in J&K Local Bodies, and also amends provisions related to State Election Commissioner in J&K.
The Act amends -
1. The Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989,
2. The Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000,
3. The Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Corporation Act, 2000.
The Act designates election-related responsibilities for all local bodies of J&K to the State Election Commissioner, and removes inconsistencies and division of responsibilities.
The Act empowers Lieutenant Governor to make rules on salary, allowance and other service conditions of the State Election Commissioner. The Act also empowers Lieutenant Government to grant or refuse leave to the State Election Commissioner.
The Act repeals the clause prohibiting reappointment of State Election Commissioner, or appointment to any other office under Central or State Governments, on expiry of the term.
The Act provides for removal of State Election Commissioner, only on the grounds and manner similar to that of removal of a High Court Judge.
You can download the Act text here.
