law: 36. Powers, authority and responsibilities of municipalities. 
  (a) in the absence of the Chairperson and unless prevented by reasonable cause, to preside over the meetings of the Nagar Panchayat or the Council, as the case may be, and he shall, when so presiding, exercise the same authority as is vested in the Chairperson under clause (a) of section 33;
  (b) pending the election of a Chairperson, or during the absence of the Chairperson to exercise the powers and perform the duties of the Chairperson.
  (1) The State Government as and when it considers expedient may, by notification, entrust
  (a) the municipalities with the function of
  (i) the preparation of plans for economic development and social justice;
  (ii) the performance of functions and the implementation of schemes as may be entrusted to including those in relation to the matters listed in the Schedule;
  (b) the Committees with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to carry out the responsibilities conferred upon them including those in relation to the matters listed in the Schedule.
  (2) On entrustment of functions under sub-section (1), the Government shall allot to the municipality such fund and personnel as may be necessary to enable the municipality to discharge the functions and duties so entrusted.