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Part IX of the Constitution of India (Articles 243–243O), inserted by the Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992, provides the constitutional framework for Panchayati Raj—local self-government in rural areas—including Gram Sabha, composition, reservations, tenure, powers and finances, elections, applicability, and judicial non-interference in electoral matters.
Articles 243 to 243O
Definitions
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Gram Sabha
Constitution of Panchayats
Composition of Panchayats
Reservation of seats
Duration of Panchayats, etc.
Disqualifications for membership
Powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats
Powers to impose taxes by, and Funds of, the Panchayats
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Constitution of Finance Commission to review financial position
Audit of accounts of Panchayats
Elections to the Panchayats
Application to Union territories
Part not to apply to certain areas
Continuance of existing laws and Panchayats
Bar to interference by courts in electoral matters
Frequently Asked Questions
Which amendment inserted Part IX and what else did it add?
The Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992 inserted Part IX and also added the Eleventh Schedule listing subjects that may be entrusted to Panchayats.
What is the Gram Sabha under Article 243A?
Article 243A provides for the Gram Sabha as the body of persons registered in the electoral rolls of a village, enabling direct participation in local governance as provided by State law.
How are Panchayats structured and composed?
Articles 243B–243C provide for Panchayats at village, intermediate, and district levels (with the intermediate tier optional in smaller States) and prescribe composition by direct elections from territorial constituencies.
What reservations are mandated in Panchayats?
Article 243D mandates reservations of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and not less than one-third of the total number of seats for women, including office of Chairpersons as provided.
What is the tenure of a Panchayat?
Article 243E provides that every Panchayat continues for five years from its first meeting unless sooner dissolved under law, with elections to be completed before expiry or within six months of dissolution.
What powers and finances do Panchayats have?
Article 243G enables State Legislatures to endow Panchayats with powers and responsibilities for plans and schemes for economic development and social justice, and Article 243H provides for taxation powers, assignments, grants-in-aid, and Funds for Panchayats.
What is the State Finance Commission under Article 243I?
Article 243I requires the Governor to constitute a Finance Commission every five years to review the financial position of Panchayats and recommend measures on distribution of finances.