The Panchayati Raj system stands as the primary avenue for rural participation in nation-building, with accountability and transparency in governance from the grassroots level.
Yet, understanding how political parties strengthen this system is crucial.
With over 68% of the population residing in rural areas, developments within these regions hold nationwide significance.
Following the 73rd constitutional amendment, which empowered approximately 34 lakh elected representatives across village, block, and district levels, the Panchayati Raj system boasts the world's broadest grassroots base. The act was enacted on April 24, 1992 and in that honour, this day is celebrated every year in India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, “On Panchayati Raj Day, greetings to all those working at grassroots to transform rural India and ensure a better quality of life for the people. Our government will continue to work to strengthen Panchayati raj institutions and give wings to people’s dreams”
As India move towards inclusive prosperity and tackles pressing issues like climate change and rural-to-urban migration, the spotlight shines brighter than ever on effective local administration.
As the 2024 elections approach, the manifestos from numerous political parties buzz with promises and pledges, each promises a unique vision for the future of governance.
While some have outlined their commitment to strengthening Panchayati Raj while others fall short on the same.
What lies behind these words is the underlying curiosity. Here’s a breakdown of what they have pledged:
1.Indian National Congress (INC)
Dubbed "Nyay Patra," the INC manifesto vows to allocate a portion of GST revenues to Panchayats.
It pledges to enhance the authority of Gram Sabha through legislative acts and increase financial assistance to autonomous district councils in northeastern states.
Special attention will be given to water access and management, emphasizing collaborative efforts involving state governments, civil society organizations, farmers, and local bodies.
2.Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
Titled "Modi ki Guarantee," BJP's manifesto commits to strengthen fiscal autonomy and sustainability for PRIs.
It states, “we will work with state governments and local bodies to prepare a special master plan to maintain their pristine beauty and biodiversity, taking into account the local geography, culture and traditional practices for the balanced development of hilly areas”
3.Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M):
CPI(M) promises to set a target for minimum local self-governance expenditure and channel funds through state governments.
4.Samajwadi Party (SP):
SP's "Janta Ka Mang Patra; Humara Adhikar" manifesto emphasizes the development of marginalized communities but lacks specific mention of strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions.
5.Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), All India Trinamool Congress (TMC):
RJD, DMK, and TMC manifestos do not prominently feature plans for empowering PRIs, drawing criticism for overlooking decentralization.
Critics have censured the mere lip service paid to the Panchayati Raj in the manifestos of various political parties, dismissing it as "business as usual."
It's a harsh reality check, signalling a lack of genuine commitment to decentralization and grassroots empowerment.
While the BJP's promise to strengthen the fiscal autonomy and sustainability of PRI's is commendable, it's essential to move beyond rhetoric and witness tangible action.
Similarly, Congress's pledge to allocate GST revenues to Panchayats, coupled with plans to fortify them in the North Eastern states and tribal areas, shows promise.
However, the real test lies in the execution.
BJP's Jal Jeevan Mission, touted as a remarkable initiative to provide safe drinking water to rural households by 2024. Prime Minister Modi said, “What couldn’t have been achieved in 70 years, much more work has been done within 7 years”.
Still, doubts linger about the scheme's long-term sustainability under the party's governance.
The omission of a decentralized judiciary at the local level in any party's manifesto also raises eyebrows. It's a missed opportunity to address grassroots justice needs.
As voters weigh their options, they must scrutinize these promises beyond just face value, demanding accountability and concrete plans for sustained progress. After all, promises are only as good as the actions that follow.
PM Modi himself rightly said, “Mere good governance is not enough, it has to be pro-people and pro-active”
The upcoming elections will reveal how committed parties truly are putting rural empowerment at the centre of the development process.
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