Question

Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

LOCAL GOVERNMENT This new system of local government is the largest experiment in democracy conducted anywhere in the world. There are now about 36 lakh elected representatives in the panchayats and municipalities etc... all over the country. This number is bigger than the population of many countries in the world. Constitutional status for local government has helped to deepen democracy in our country. It has also increased women's representation and voice in our democracy. At the same time, there are many difficulties. While elections are held regularly and enthusiastically, gram sabhas are not held regularly. Most state governments have not transferred significant powers to the local governments. Nor have they given adequate resources. We are thus still a long way from realising the ideal of self government.

1. Analyse the significance of the representatives in the Panchayats.     1
2. In what way has the representation of women in democracy influenced by Constitutional status for local government?     1
3. What has been the impact of granting Constitutional status to local government on the democratic landscape of the country? Analyse any two impacts.     2

Answer 1

1. Currently, there are approximately 3.6 million elected representatives in panchayats, municipalities, and similar bodies across the nation. This figure exceeds the population of numerous countries globally. The constitutional standing of local government has enhanced democracy in our nation. Elected members in Panchayats are accountable to the constituents who elected them. They are accountable for transparent governance, guaranteeing public monies' effective and judicious utilisation.
2.    
   1. Constitutional Mandate: The Constitution mandates reserving seats for women in local government bodies through the 73rd and 74th Amendments.
   2. Increased Participation: The reservation of seats has led to a significant rise in women's participation in politics and governance at the grassroots level.
   3. Empowerment and Representation: Women actively engage in decision-making and advocate for their interests, bringing unique perspectives to governance.
   4. Socio-economic Development: Women leaders promote initiatives for education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, leading to improved outcomes in various areas.
   5. Political Empowerment: Many women leaders from local government bodies have advanced to state and national politics, challenging gender stereotypes.
3. The country's democratic environment has been significantly impacted by the decision to grant constitutional status to local government entities. 
   Here are two key impacts:
   1. Decentralisation of Power: The constitutional status conferred upon local government has enabled the decentralisation of power and decision-making authority from central and state governments to the grassroots level.
      The 73rd and 74th Amendments to the Constitution in 1992 authorised the establishment of Panchayats and municipalities as self-governing entities, ensuring that governance is more responsive and accountable to local populations.
   2. Strengthening of Grassroots Democracy: By institutionalising systems for citizen involvement, representation, and local-level accountability, the constitutional status of local government has promoted grassroots democracy.
      Local communities can shape policies and programs affecting their lives through democratic processes like elections, public consultations, and decision-making forums. This makes people more politically aware, civically engaged, and socially cohesive, which builds a mindset of democratic government from the ground up. Reserving seats for marginalised groups, including women and scheduled castes and tribes, enhances inclusivity and representation in local governance structures, promoting social justice and equity. In conclusion, the conferral of constitutional status upon local government has resulted in decentralising authority and decision-making processes, enabling local communities to self-govern and effectively respond to their specific needs. The program has enhanced grassroots democracy by establishing mechanisms for public engagement, representation, and accountability at the local level, resulting in a more inclusive and responsive democratic governance system.