Study of Panchayati Raj and Rajasthan’s Panchayati Raj Act 2015, its benefits and loopholes in the bill.

Abstract

It is the oldest system of local government in the Indian subcontinent. The word “panchayat” literally means “assembly” of five (panch) wise and respected elders chosen and accepted by the local community. Traditionally, these assemblies settled disputes between individuals and villages. British established local self-government in 1869 when they made a District Local Fund in Bombay. This was a nominated body. In 1882, Lord Ripon established local self- government in India with the seating up of district local boards. District boards and councils were established in Marathwada and Vidarbh.
The next important piece of legislation was the Bombay village panchyat Act 1920. Under this Act, the Panchayats was constituted into an elected body. Members were elected by adult male villagers and the Panchayat was entrusted with local functions, mainly of a civil nature. Panchayat were empowered to collect compulsory house taxes. The Bombay Village Panchayat Act 1920 empowered village Panchayats to take up various activities, including some social-economic functions, and gave the power to heavy taxes and duties in order to increase their income.