Why are sarpanchs in Odisha's Keonjhar threatening to tender their resignation

The sarpanchs in Keonjhar, Odisha are threatening to tender their resignations due to their grievances, which include: 1. Lack of financial support: The sarpanchs are frustrated with the state government's failure to provide adequate financial support to effectively carry out their duties. They claim that the funds allocated to them are insufficient, hindering the development projects in their respective villages. 2. Unavailability of resources: Sarpanchs have expressed concern over the lack of necessary resources required for smooth functioning. Insufficient infrastructure, absence of basic amenities like clean drinking water, inadequate healthcare facilities, and poor road connectivity are major challenges faced by the sarpanchs. 3. Bureaucratic hurdles: The sarpanchs' decision-making authority is often hampered by bureaucratic hurdles. The delay in receiving permissions and clearances from various government departments adds significant roadblocks to implementing development initiatives effectively. 4. Lack of empowerment: Sarpanchs also feel a lack of empowerment in decision-making processes, with their decisions being frequently overruled by higher authorities without justification. This undermines their position and discourages them from effectively fulfilling their roles. If the grievances of the sarpanchs remain unaddressed, their threat of resignation could exacerbate the already-existing development issues in Keonjhar, Odisha.