Government Issues Key Orders on Cheque Payments in Gram Panchayats

The Telangana government has taken steps to prevent delays in cheque payments related to development works and bills in gram panchayats. Following directions from Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister Seethakka, guidelines have reportedly been issued to district panchayat officials. The move comes amid complaints that delays in signatures between sarpanches and deputy sarpanches have affected the processing of payments.

Under the reported guidelines, after the sarpanch signs a cheque, the deputy sarpanch is expected to sign it within the prescribed period. Action may be initiated in cases of deliberate or repeated delays, according to reports. The measures come amid continuing concerns over the joint cheque-signing system and its impact on the timely implementation of development works in villages.