Social Justice and Panchayati Raj

Panchayat Raj is deeply steeped in the tradition and culture of rural India. Rural development is the main pillar of state development. It provides for a system of self-governance at the village level, however, it did not have a constitutional status till 1992. It is a political system mainly in India. It is the oldest system of local government in the Indian subcontinent. The word panchayat literally means assembly (ayat) of five (panch) wise and respected elders chosen and accepted by the local community. However, there are different forms of assemblies. Traditionally, these assemblies settled disputes between individuals and villages. Modern Indian government has decentralized several administrative functions to the local level, empowering elected gram panchayats. Gram panchayats are not to be confused with the unelected khap panchayats (or caste panchayats) found in some parts of India. Effective and meaningful functioning of these bodies would depend on active involvement, contribution and participation of its citizens both male and female. The primary aim of this book is to present a succinct account of the essential features of this subject. It is being prepared by keeping in view the requirements of the students and academic professionals.