Development works stall in Navi Bhildi due to power struggle between Sarpanch and Up-Sarpanch

Development in Navi Bhildi village of Deesa taluka has been hindered due to a power struggle and administrative disputes between the Sarpanch and Up-Sarpanch persisting for the last five years. According to a report by Sandesh, internal conflicts and factionalism within the Panchayat have prevented the execution of development works for the villagers.

This dispute began after Kantilal Kapurji Mali was elected as Sarpanch. The matter reached the court following a no-confidence motion and administrative proceedings against him. Previously, the Banaskantha District Development Officer had ordered his removal from the post under Section 57(1) of the Gujarat Panchayat Act. The Additional Development Commissioner also upheld this decision, and the charge of Sarpanch was handed over to the Up-Sarpanch.

Kantilal Mali filed a petition in the Gujarat High Court against these orders. On 27/10/2026, the High Court granted a stay on the previous orders. Based on this, the Deesa Taluka Development Officer ordered Kantilal Mali to resume charge as Sarpanch on 04/11/2026. With the possibility of new elections in the coming period, villagers are hoping for a new direction for the development of the village.