Part IXA: The Municipalities
Article 243W: Powers, Authority, and Responsibilities of Municipalities
Original Article:
The State Legislature may, by law, empower Municipalities to function as self-governing institutions, assigning them responsibilities for economic development, social justice, and matters listed in the Twelfth Schedule.
Amendments:
Introduced by the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, Article 243W establishes the framework for Municipalities to undertake local governance responsibilities effectively.
Explanation:
Article 243W empowers Municipalities by granting them authority to govern and implement developmental plans related to urban infrastructure, public health, and other matters specified in the Twelfth Schedule.
Clause-by-Clause Explanation:
- Self-Governance: Municipalities are enabled to function as institutions of self-governance, planning and implementing economic and social development initiatives.
- Devolution of Responsibilities: Municipalities are responsible for functions listed in the Twelfth Schedule, such as urban planning, water supply, and public health.
- Empowerment of Committees: Committees within Municipalities are granted powers to ensure localized accountability and governance.
Legislative History:
The 74th Amendment Act transformed urban governance in India by formalizing the roles and responsibilities of Municipalities, creating a system for decentralized urban administration.
Real-life Examples:
- The Municipal Corporation of Delhi oversees urban planning, water supply, and sanitation under Article 243W, addressing local development needs.
- In Bengaluru, the BBMP implements public health and infrastructure projects as empowered by the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
The Twelfth Schedule lists responsibilities such as urban planning, water supply, and sanitation that are assigned to Municipalities under Article 243W.
Committees are granted powers to oversee specific functions, ensuring decentralized governance within urban areas.
Yes, Municipalities are empowered to implement schemes and projects promoting social justice as outlined in Article 243W.
Debates and Deliberations:
During the discussions on the 74th Amendment:
- Mr. Shashi Tharoor emphasized the need for urban self-governance to address rapid urbanization challenges.
- Ms. Renuka Chowdhury highlighted the importance of assigning clear responsibilities to Municipalities for effective development.