Jammu, Feb 11 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said that separate election and finance commissions would be set up for panchayats before the upcoming polls in conformity with the 73rd amendment of the Indian constitution.

"The government will introduce bills seeking the constitution of a separate election and finance commission for panchayats in the forthcoming session of the legislative assembly," Abdullah told a meeting of public representatives, including legislators and senior officers of Rajouri and Poonch districts, Thursday evening.

There was fear among opposition groups over seriousness of the state government in holding the panchayat polls despite an announcement Wednesday that three-tier panchayat polls would be held on non-party basis in Jammu and Kashmir.

The move was rejected as "half-hearted" by the opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The chief minister said: "The government has decided to conduct the panchayat polls on non-party basis."

According to the spirit of the 73rd constitutional amendment, he said, the Election Commission would be established in the state for which a bill will be introduced to amend the state's Panchayati Raj Act, 1989.

"Similarly, for setting up a Finance Commission, a bill will be introduced to amend the Panchayati Raj Act 1989," he said.

"Elected representatives at district level will also be empowered to ensure efficient monitoring of development schemes at the grassroots level," he added.

Sehwag to captain Delhi Daredevils in IPL-4 

New Delhi, Feb 11 (IANS) India's dashing opening batsman Virender Sehwag will lead the Delhi Daredevils in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The 32-year-old Delhi opener has been part of the Delhi Daredevils since the IPL began in 2008. Under his leadership, Delhi Daredevils reached the semi-finals in the first two editions of the IPL and also topped the league stage in 2009.

Sehwag said he was looking forward to taking the Daredevils to new heights in IPL-4.

"For me there cannot be any other team than Delhi Daredevils in the IPL. As someone who grew up playing cricket in Delhi I am very proud to be playing for the Delhi Daredevils. I am delighted to be part of the Delhi Daredevils and lead the team," said Sehwag.

Srinivas Bommidala, chairman of GMR Sports, said Sehwag was the source of inspiration and strength for both young and experienced players.

"He is a leader who paves the way by example," he said.

P.B. Vanchi, director GMR Sports, said: "Viru has been an integral part of the Delhi Daredevils from the day it was formed. He has been the face of the team and an icon best suited to lead our team. Sehwag's attacking style at the start of the innings sets the tone for the rest of the team."