Need to strengthen Panchayati Raj System – UPSC GS2

Evolution of Panchayati Raj System

During the Ancient period, the Cholas pioneered the formation of local bodies to oversee the implementation of State plans.
During the British period, in 1884, the Madras Local Boards Act was passed. After that, unions in both small towns and big cities were formed to ensure better administration.
Gram panchayat laws were enacted in 1920. It allowed people over 25 years of age the right to vote and choose their panchayat members.
Gandhiji was one of the pioneers to emphasise the importance of local bodies. He stressed the importance of autonomously ruled villages. He quoted that, “The voice of the people is the voice of god; The voice of the Panchayat is the voice of the people,”
Only in 1992, after the 73rd and 74^th Amendments, local bodies were given constitutional recognition. This provided many positive changes such as:
- Powers to grama Sabha,
- Reservation for the downtrodden and women,
- Consistency in economic development,
- Mandatory local body elections once in five years,
- Formation of the State Election Commission, Finance Commission,

Case Study: Apathy towards Panchayati raj in Tamilnadu

It is mandatory that Gram Sabhas should meet at least four times in a year, according to the rules framed by the Tamil Nadu government.
As per the constitution 73^rd amendment, local body elections must be conducted once in a ﬁve years.
Gram sabhas are empowered to take opinions and the consensus of the people on significant issues.
However, in Tamilnadu these mandatory norms are being violated. For instance,
- Holding of elections to local bodies is being postponed by the government by giving irrelevant excuses.
- Consensus of the people on significant issues such as an eight-lane highway project and hydrocarbon project are not being taken.
- Lack of women’s representation in major administrative roles in the local bodies.

Way forward:

Need to strengthen our Gram Sabhas by