The Times of India
Located near the picturesque foothills of Shivaliks, Chandigarh is known as one of the best experiments in urban planning and modern architecture of 20th century India. Since its creation, the city has been under the direct control of the central government.
Over a period of time, it has been felt that UT should have a state council with powers of controlling the budgetary and financial allocations and that the present system of governance in the union territories is not satisfactory. On the occasion of 59th Republic Day, talked to people from various quarters on the issue and tried to find out what more could be done to improve the city's governance.
BJP leader and former MP Satya Pal Jain, said, "There is absolutely no public involvement in the decision-making process. Local politicians are not made part of the governance and not asked while taking important decisions, which affects the welfare of people here. Moreover, politicians are not included in the UT advisory councils with the officials of the administration. The issue whether Chandigarh should have legislative assembly or not should be seriously debated."
