Part IX: The Panchayats

Article 243A: Powers and Functions of Gram Sabha

Original Article:

A Gram Sabha may exercise such powers and perform such functions at the village level as the Legislature of a State may, by law, provide.

Amendments:

• Introduced through the Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992, effective from 24th April 1993.

Amendment Explanation:

The 73rd Amendment Act introduced Article 243A to empower rural communities through Gram Sabhas, enabling them to participate in local governance and decision-making.

Explanations:

Article 243A enables Gram Sabhas to function as forums for direct democracy, allowing residents to oversee developmental projects, manage local funds, and make decisions critical to their communities. It grants the State Legislature authority to define the scope of these powers.

Historical Significance:

Recognizing the importance of grassroots governance, Article 243A institutionalized the role of Gram Sabhas in Indian democracy, fulfilling Gandhian ideals of village self-rule and participatory decision-making.

Debates and Deliberations:

• Shri L. M. Singhvi: Highlighted the need for Gram Sabhas to monitor and manage local governance effectively.
• Dr. Manmohan Singh: Advocated for empowering Gram Sabhas to act as watchdogs over developmental funds and social justice schemes.

Real-Life Examples:

• Maharashtra: Gram Sabhas have played a vital role in managing water resources under the Jal Yukt Shivar Abhiyan.
• Kerala: Participatory planning by Gram Sabhas has been central to the success of the People’s Planning Campaign.

References:

• The Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992.
• Reports by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India.