Journey, Hurdle and Challenges before the Panchayati Raj Institutions in J&K

Abstract

The term Panchayati raj in India signifies the system of rural local self-government. It has been established in all the states of India by the Acts of the state legislatures to build democracy at the grassroots level. It is entrusted with rural development. It was constitutionalised through the 73^rd constitutional Amendment Act of 1992.  Panchayati raj institutions provide opportunities to the local people to participate in the political and development process at grassroots level. But still Panchayati raj institutions are not working properly particularly in J&K state of India. The present paper studies the journey and hindrances of Panchayati raj institutions in J&K and emphasises the effect of militancy in the working of panchayats in J&K state.

Keywords: Panchayat, decentralization, panch, sarpanch, election, militancy