Part IX: The Panchayats

Article 243F: Disqualifications for Membership

Original Article:

(1) A person shall be disqualified for being chosen as, and for being, a member of a Panchayat—

• (a) if disqualified by or under any law for elections to the State Legislature, provided a person aged twenty-one or above is eligible.
• (b) if disqualified by any law made by the State Legislature.

(2) Questions regarding disqualification shall be referred to an authority designated by the State Legislature.

Amendments:

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

Amendment Explanation:

This amendment establishes the disqualifications for Panchayat members, ensuring ethical governance while promoting youth representation through reduced age criteria.

Explanations:

Article 243F ensures integrity in Panchayat membership by setting eligibility criteria and providing a mechanism to address disqualifications through State authorities.

Historical Significance:

By reducing the minimum age to 21, this article encourages youth participation in governance, addressing historical barriers to representation at the grassroots level.

Debates and Deliberations:

• Shri Rajiv Gandhi: Highlighted the need for young leaders in local governance to bring innovation and energy to rural development.
• Shri L.K. Advani: Stressed the importance of stringent disqualification norms to maintain transparency and accountability in Panchayat operations.

Real-Life Examples:

• Karnataka: The inclusion of young leaders aged 21+ has led to innovative rural development projects, reflecting the youth’s active role in governance.
• Madhya Pradesh: Disqualification provisions were enforced when a member was found guilty of financial irregularities, maintaining Panchayat integrity.

References:

• The Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992.
• State Panchayati Raj Acts.