Kolhapur: A 90-year-old man underwent his dream.
Since 1962, he has contested all local village elections for the position of Sarpanch (village head) from a historic village in Kolhapur.
He never won.
On Thursday, he was appointed by Sarpanch for a week after the state government gave permission.
Bapu Pira Kamble, unfortunately called ‘Anna’ by the villagers, visited the Mangaon Gram Panchayat office, bringing some acquaintances.
He is the most senior senior resident and has great confidence in the institutions and democratic processes.
After assuming the cost as Sarpanch, Kambu became emotional and said he was humble with the decision.
“It is the task of every citizen to take part in the political process – directly or indirectly.
I serve people without any position and now as Sarpanch I will ensure that poor villagers get justice,” he said.
During his tenure for a week, Kambu could call a meeting, discuss the problem and give orders, but he could not take financial decisions.
Sarpanch selected defense from the village, Raju Magdum, said that they often heard Kamble talking about his desire to become Sarpanch during his visit to the Pancrayat office.
“We decided to make his wish reality.
We wrote to Kolhapur Zilla Parishad officials for permission.
They gave us permission to make him Sarpanch for a week, without inhibiting the executive function,” he said.
This village has historical significance.
That’s where Dr.
Babasaheb Amedkar made his first public appearance with the legendary King Shahu Maharaj on his side.
Magdum said that after Ambedkar died, the village decided to put up his statue.
“Kambu is one member of the committee formed to monitor the work of the installation of the statue.
Now, he is only a member who lives from the committee.
A loyal ambedkarite, he formed a housing colony for poor people in the village,” Magdum said.
Magdum said Kambu was against the poll where he was chosen but they did not allow political differences in blocking them.