General power of Government to issue guidelines and to conduct enquiry. - (1)

Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the Government shall have the power to issue general guidelines to the panchayats in accordance with the National and State Policies in matters such as finance, maintenance of accounts, officer management, formulation of schemes, selection of sites and beneficiaries, proper functioning of Grama Sabha, welfare programmes and environmental regulations and panchayats shall comply with such directions. (2)If there is any default in the implementation of schemes or maintenance of accounts or complaint is received in the matter, Government may arrange for enquiry into the matter and the panchayat shall co-operate with such enquiry. (3)After such enquiry, Government may take such action as is necessary and permissible under this Act.]