Previous Year Question

Part IX of the Constitution of India deals with “The Panchayats.” It contains the constitutional provisions relating to Panchayati Raj Institutions from Article 243 to Article 243-O.

Part IX was inserted into the Constitution by the Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992 and came into force on 24 April 1993. This amendment provided a detailed constitutional framework for Panchayati Raj Institutions.

Article 243A deals with the Gram Sabha, while Article 243B provides for Panchayats at the village, intermediate and district levels in every State. However, a Panchayat at the intermediate level need not be constituted in a State having a population not exceeding 20 lakh.

Article 243C deals with the composition of Panchayats, 243D with reservation of seats, 243E with their duration, 243G with their powers and responsibilities, 243-I with the State Finance Commission and 243K with Panchayat elections. Thus, Part IX provides a constitutional framework not merely for the establishment of Panchayats but also for their composition, elections, reservation, finances and functions.

The 73rd Amendment also inserted the Eleventh Schedule, containing 29 subjects related to Panchayats. Under Article 243G, State Legislatures may devolve powers and responsibilities upon Panchayats relating to plans for economic development and social justice.