Ernakulam: Twenty20, the Kitex Group-backed political party that governs some grama panchayats in Ernakulam district, has announced a major welfare initiative ahead of the local body elections later this year and the assembly elections next year. The party-led administrations in Kizhakkambalam and Aikkaranadu panchayats have decided to bear 25% of residents' electricity and cooking gas bills, utilising surplus funds (own fund) accumulated over their tenure.

Party president Sabu M. Jacob said that the initiative aims to provide relief to residents and aligns with the Panchayati Raj Act. He warned that the party would approach the court if any obstacles were created in implementing the scheme. According to Jacob, 75% of families in the two panchayats would benefit, with the subsidy being directly transferred to their bank accounts. However, white ration cardholders (non-priority category) will not be eligible for financial assistance. Additionally, both panchayats plan to provide Rs 1,000 as aid to cancer patients.

Source of funds
Twenty20 claims that the financial assistance will come from the surplus funds (own fund revenue) of the respective panchayats. Kizhakkambalam grama panchayat has reportedly accumulated Rs 25 crore, while Aikkaranadu has a surplus of Rs 12 crore. The party stated that these funds were generated through tax collection over the years and are now being allocated for resident benefits. However, it acknowledged that state government approval would be necessary for implementing the scheme.

Government's stand

Meanwhile, some residents have questioned whether all essential projects have been completed before surplus funds are allocated for subsidies. Concerns have been raised about the lack of public toilets in Kizhakkambalam and the delayed reconstruction of the town’s market complex, which was demolished over two years ago. An RTI response revealed that Rs 17 crore had been allocated for the market, but the project remains stalled.

Twenty20 office bearers, however, assured that construction would commence soon, alongside the completion of a Take-a-Break toilet complex and a gym.

Sources from the Local Self-Government Department noted that while local bodies are permitted to design and implement welfare projects under the Panchayati Raj Act, their primary responsibility is ensuring the timely execution of projects benefiting residents. They emphasised that local bodies should not function like corporate entities focused on generating surplus funds but should prioritise proper implementation of welfare initiatives.

Political implications for Twenty20
The initiative is seen as an effort to regain political ground after the party’s underwhelming performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections. Despite its promise to redefine governance, Twenty20 struggled to gain voter confidence. The party leadership had aggressively campaigned against the LDF and UDF, accusing them of focusing on superficial projects such as high-mast lights. Sabu M. Jacob had asserted that Twenty20 would demonstrate what an MP could truly achieve for a constituency.