62. Powers and duties of the Adhyaksha and Upadhyaksha.
(1)The Adhyaksha of the Grama Panchayat shall [be the executive head of the Grama Panchayat and he shall] [Inserted by Act 37 of 2003 w.e.f. 1.10.2003.] in addition to the powers exercisable under any other provision of this Act or rules made thereunder,-(a)convene meetings of the Grama Panchayat;(b)have access to the records of the Grama Panchayat [and may call for records and files, and pass orders thereon in accordance with the provisions in the Act, rules and other standing orders and in pursuance to resolution passed by the Grama Panchayat to that effect: [Inserted by Act 37 of 2003 w.e.f. 1.10.2003.]Provided that the Adhyaksha shall not call for the files and records which are directly related to the exercise of independent statutory powers by the Secretary or any other officer of the Grama Panchayat;] and(c)exercise supervision and control over the acts of the officers and employees of the Grama Panchayat [including the Secretary] [Inserted by Act 29 of 1997 w.e.f. 20.10.1997.].(d)[ have power to place under suspension any officer or employee under the control of the Grama Panchayat where a disciplinary proceeding against him is contemplated or pending or where a case against him in respect of any criminal offence is under investigation or trial.] [Inserted by Act 37 of 2003 w.e.f. 1.10.2003.](2)The Adhyaksha may, if in his opinion the immediate execution of any work or the doing of any act which requires the sanction of a committee or of the Grama Panchayat, is necessary in public interest convene a meeting for the purpose with a notice of twenty-four hours.(3)The Upadhyaksha of the Grama Panchayat shall exercise the powers and perform the duties of the Adhyaksha when the Adhyaksha is absent, on leave or is incapacitated from functioning.
