Evolution of Local Self Government in India
DECENTRALIZATION AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN INDIA
The evolution of local government in India reflects a journey from ancient decentralized systems to structured frameworks established in the post-independence era and subsequent developments. This essay delves into the chronological background of local self-government, the pivotal role of committees and recommendations, and the transformative impact of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts. Furthermore, it explores rural and urban self-government, emphasizing their significance in promoting grassroots democracy and inclusive development.
Chronological Background of Local Self-Government
Local governance in ancient India was characterized by decentralized forms such as "Janapadas" or republics, governed by institutions like the "Sabha" and "Samiti." In the medieval period, local administration varied under different rulers such as the Mauryas, Guptas, Mughals, and regional kingdoms. For instance, during the Mughal era, ‘kotwal’ used to be appointed to look after the after administration, judicial, intelligence and police too. Thus, in ancient times, local administration was military organisation and had functions like supervision and punishment of crime.
However, colonial rule introduced centralized governance, setting the stage for subsequent reforms during the pre-independence era with the first Municipal Council established in 1687 in Madras (now Chennai) Presidency. Finally, the Ripon Resolution of 1882 led to the term 'Self-government' gaining currency. This was due to the fact that till, 1882, local self-government was functioning without participation of Indians fellow and therefore, it was neither, ‘local ‘nor ‘self-government ‘. It had organization and control but lacked vital essence of democracy.
The local government system evolved gradually during the struggle for independence. Mahatma Gandhi advocated for decentralized governance through his concept of "Gram Swaraj" or village self-rule. The Government of India Act, 1935, introduced some elements of local self-government, albeit limited in scope.
The Constitution of India, adopted in 1950, provided for a three-tier system of local governance: the Gram Panchayat at the village level, the Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and the Zila Parishad at the district level. However, the implementation of decentralized governance varied across states, with some states empowering local bodies more effectively than others. In 1992, the 73rd Amendment to the Constitution mandated the establishment of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to ensure democratic decentralization. Similarly, the 74th Amendment in 1992 mandated the establishment of urban local bodies, such as Municipalities and Municipal Corporations, for urban governance.
Over the years, there have been efforts to strengthen local governance through devolution of powers, capacity building, and financial autonomy. Various schemes and programs have been launched to empower local bodies and promote grassroots development, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, AMRUT, and Smart Cities Mission. The 73rd and 74th Amendments have undergone revisions and amendments in some states to address challenges and improve the functioning of local bodies.
Committees and Recommendations
Various committees and commissions have shaped India's local governance landscape through their recommendations. The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) advocated for a three-tier Panchayati Raj system, while the Ashok Mehta Committee (1977) emphasized constitutional recognition and empowerment of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). Subsequent committees like the L.M. Singhvi Committee (1986) and G.V.K. Rao Committee (1985) focused on strengthening local self-government through constitutional amendments and financial empowerment.
The Punchhi Commission (2007) recommended measures to revitalize and strengthen PRIs, including better financial devolution and electoral reforms. Similarly, the Narendra Modi Task Force on Inter-Governmental Fiscal Relations (2013) focused on fiscal federalism, aiming to enhance the financial autonomy and capacity of local governments. The Fourteenth Finance Commission (2015) recommended a significant increase in the share of central taxes devolved to states, enhancing the fiscal space available for local governments.
73rd and 74th Amendment Acts
The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, enacted in 1992, were landmark legislations aimed at democratizing governance. The 73rd Amendment recognized PRIs as the third tier of government, mandating their establishment and devolution of powers. Similarly, the 74th Amendment recognized Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) as the fourth tier, empowering them with responsibilities for urban governance and development.
73rd Amendment Act (1992):
Also known as the Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992.
It provided for the constitutional recognition of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) as the third tier of government, alongside the Union and State governments.
Key provisions included:
Establishment of a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj - Gram Panchayat at the village level, Panchayat Samiti at the intermediate (block) level, and Zila Parishad at the district level.
Direct elections to all seats in the PRIs, including the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women.
Devolution of powers and responsibilities to PRIs in various areas such as agriculture, rural development, education, health, and social justice.
Creation of State Election Commissions to conduct elections to PRIs
2. 74th Amendment Act (1992):
Also known as the Constitution (Seventy-fourth Amendment) Act, 1992.
It provided for the constitutional recognition of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) as the fourth tier of government.
Key provisions included:
o Classification of urban areas into Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats, based on population size and other criteria.
o Establishment of elected bodies for ULBs, including Mayors, Municipal Commissioners, and Municipal Councils.
o Reservation of seats for SCs, STs, and women in ULBs.
o Devolution of powers and functions to ULBs in areas such as urban planning, infrastructure development, public health, and sanitation.
o Creation of State Election Commissions to conduct elections to ULBs and State Finance Commissions to recommend financial devolution to ULBs.
o State Finance Commissions to recommend financial devolution to PRIs.
Rural Self-Government
Rural self-government, facilitated by Gram Panchayats under the 73rd Amendment, empowers local communities to manage their affairs. Gram Panchayats undertake diverse functions, including development planning, infrastructure maintenance, and social justice initiatives. Through participatory decision-making and capacity building, rural self-government fosters grassroots democracy and inclusive rural development.
Key aspects of rural self-government in India include:
Gram Panchayats: These are the lowest tier of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), responsible for governance at the village level. Gram Panchayats consist of elected representatives known as Panchayat members who are responsible for local administration, development planning, and service delivery in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, education, health, and sanitation.
Powers and Functions: Gram Panchayats have been delegated various powers and functions by state governments, including the preparation of village development plans, implementation of rural development schemes, maintenance of local infrastructure such as roads and water supply systems, and promotion of social justice and empowerment initiatives.
Elections and Representation: Members of Gram Panchayats are elected through direct elections conducted by State Election Commissions. Seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women to ensure their representation in local governance.
Financial Resources: Gram Panchayats receive funds from the state government through the recommendations of State Finance Commissions. These funds are utilized for local development projects, maintenance of infrastructure, and provision of essential services to rural communities.
Participatory Decision-Making: Rural self-government emphasizes participatory decision-making processes, encouraging active involvement of local communities in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of development initiatives. Gram Sabhas, which are general body meetings of villagers, serve as forums for discussing local issues and making collective decisions.
Capacity Building: Efforts are made to strengthen the capacity of Gram Panchayats and their members through training programs, workshops, and technical assistance. Capacity building initiatives aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of local representatives in governance, administration, and resource management.
Overall, rural self-government in India through Gram Panchayats plays a crucial role in promoting grassroots democracy, decentralization of power, and inclusive development in rural areas. It empowers local communities to actively participate in decision-making processes and take ownership of their development agendas.
Urban Self-Government
Urban self-government, established through ULBs under the 74th Amendment, empowers urban communities to address urban challenges. ULBs undertake responsibilities such as urban planning, infrastructure development, and service provision. Through participatory processes and capacity building, urban self-government promotes inclusive urban development and sustainable urban management.
Here are key aspects of urban self-government in India:
Urban Local Bodies (ULBs): ULBs are the local governing bodies responsible for administering urban areas. They are classified into Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats based on population size and other criteria.
Powers and Functions: ULBs have been delegated various powers and functions by state governments, including urban planning, infrastructure development, public health, sanitation, water supply, waste management, and local taxation. They are responsible for providing essential services to urban residents and ensuring the overall well-being of the urban community.
Elections and Representation: Members of ULBs, including Mayors, Municipal Commissioners, and Municipal Councilors, are elected through direct elections conducted by State Election Commissions. Seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women to ensure their representation in urban governance.
Financial Resources: ULBs receive funds from the state government and central government through various channels, including grants, taxes, and user charges. State Finance Commissions recommend the allocation of funds to ULBs, considering factors such as population, revenue generation capacity, and infrastructure needs.
Participatory Decision-Making: Urban self-government emphasizes participatory decision-making processes, encouraging active involvement of urban residents, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in urban planning, policy formulation, and implementation. Ward Committees and Area Sabhas serve as forums for citizen participation and engagement in local governance.
Capacity Building: Efforts are made to strengthen the capacity of ULBs and their officials through training programs, capacity-building workshops, and technical assistance. Capacity building initiatives aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of urban administrators in governance, urban management, and service delivery.
Overall, urban self-government in India through Urban Local Bodies plays a crucial role in promoting urban democracy, decentralization of power, and inclusive development in urban areas. It empowers local communities to actively participate in decision-making processes and contribute to the sustainable development of their urban environment.
Conclusion
The journey of local government in India reflects a transition from ancient decentralized systems to structured frameworks, culminating in the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts. Rural and urban self-government play pivotal roles in promoting grassroots democracy, decentralization of power, and inclusive development. As India continues its path of governance reforms, local self-government remains a cornerstone for democratic governance and sustainable development. The recommendations of various committees and commissions, along with legislative amendments, have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of local governance in India, ensuring greater autonomy, accountability, and effectiveness at the grassroots level.
References
1. "Local Self-Government in India: A Study of Urban and Rural Local Government Institutions" by Dr. G.R. Madan
2. "Decentralized Governance in Developing Countries" edited by Pranab Bardhan and Dilip Mookherjee
3. "Panchayati Raj in India: Status, Issues, and Challenges" by Dr. M.P. Sharma
4. "Local Government in India: Structure, Functions, and Challenges" by Dr. S.R. Maheshwari
5. "Urban Local Government in India: A Study of Municipal Corporations in Delhi" by Dr. A.K. Jain