Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, also known as the Panchayati Raj Institutionalization Act, marked a watershed moment in India’s journey towards decentralized governance. Prior to this, local self-governance lacked constitutional sanction and was largely dependent on state legislation. The amendment aimed to establish a three-tier system of Panchayats – at the village, intermediate (block/taluka), and district levels – and to provide constitutional recognition and protection to these institutions. Crucially, it mandated reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women, aiming to ensure their participation in decision-making processes. This amendment’s success in achieving the goal of empowerment of marginalized sections is a subject of ongoing debate and requires a nuanced assessment.
Unique Features of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment
The 73rd Amendment introduced several unique features that fundamentally altered the landscape of local governance in India:
- Constitutional Status: It added Part IX to the Constitution, titled “The Panchayats,” granting constitutional status to Panchayats.
- Three-Tier System: It mandated the establishment of Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels, ensuring a structured framework for decentralized governance.
- Regular Elections: It stipulated regular elections to Panchayats every five years, ensuring democratic accountability.
- Reservation of Seats: A key feature was the reservation of not less than one-third of the seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and one-third of the total number of seats for women. This provision aimed to enhance the representation of marginalized groups.
- State Finance Commission: It mandated the establishment of State Finance Commissions to review the financial position of Panchayats and make recommendations regarding the distribution of funds.
- State Election Commission: It established State Election Commissions to conduct elections to Panchayats.
- Devolution of Powers: It empowered State Legislatures to devolve powers and responsibilities upon Panchayats, enabling them to function as effective units of self-governance.
Contribution to Empowerment of Marginalized Sections
The 73rd Amendment has demonstrably contributed to the empowerment of marginalized sections in several ways:
Political Empowerment
The reservation of seats for SCs, STs, and women has significantly increased their representation in Panchayats. This has provided them with a platform to voice their concerns, participate in decision-making, and influence policies at the grassroots level. Data from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (as of 2023, based on knowledge cutoff) indicates that over 1.3 million elected Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members are women, representing approximately 44.2% of total PRI members.
Social Empowerment
Increased participation of marginalized groups in local governance has led to greater social awareness and mobilization. It has challenged traditional hierarchies and power structures, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. For example, women representatives have often prioritized issues such as access to clean water, sanitation, and education, which directly benefit marginalized communities.
Economic Empowerment
Panchayats, with the participation of marginalized groups, have been instrumental in implementing various development programs aimed at economic empowerment. These include schemes related to employment generation, poverty alleviation, and livelihood diversification. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), implemented through Panchayats, has provided crucial employment opportunities to marginalized sections.
Enhanced Accountability
The presence of marginalized representatives in Panchayats has increased accountability and transparency in local governance. They are more likely to advocate for the needs of their communities and ensure that development funds are utilized effectively.
Limitations and Challenges
Despite its positive contributions, the 73rd Amendment faces several limitations and challenges:
- ‘Sarpanch Pati’ Phenomenon: In many cases, elected women representatives are merely proxies for their husbands or other male relatives, undermining their actual agency.
- Lack of Capacity Building: Many elected representatives, particularly from marginalized backgrounds, lack the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively perform their duties.
- Insufficient Devolution of Funds and Functions: States have often been reluctant to devolve sufficient funds and functions to Panchayats, limiting their effectiveness.
- Social Discrimination: Deep-rooted social discrimination continues to hinder the full participation of marginalized groups in local governance.
- Dominance of Local Elites: Local elites often continue to exert significant influence over Panchayats, marginalizing the voices of the poor and vulnerable.
| Aspect | Positive Impact | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Political Representation | Increased representation of SCs, STs, and women in Panchayats. | ‘Sarpanch Pati’ phenomenon; limited decision-making power. |
| Financial Resources | State Finance Commissions established to review financial position. | Insufficient devolution of funds from state governments. |
| Capacity Building | Increased awareness and mobilization of marginalized groups. | Lack of training and skills among elected representatives. |
Conclusion
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment represents a significant step towards achieving the goal of empowerment of marginalized sections of society. By providing constitutional recognition to Panchayats and mandating reservation of seats, it has enhanced their political participation and agency at the grassroots level. However, realizing the full potential of this amendment requires addressing the existing limitations and challenges, including strengthening capacity building, ensuring adequate devolution of funds and functions, and tackling social discrimination. Continued efforts are needed to create a truly inclusive and equitable system of local governance that empowers all sections of society.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.