Local Governments: Decentralized Democracy

Local governments are instruments of decentralization and participatory democracy. It is government at the village and district level. It is the  form of government which is closest to the common people. 

Why is local government so important for democratic decision-making and community development?

• Local Knowledge Required: Local knowledge and local interest are essential ingredients for democratic decision-making.
• Role of Local Governments: They are essential for efficient and people-friendly administration.

• • Efficient Administration Under Local Government : It is convenient for the people to approach them to solve their problems both quickly and with minimum cost.
  • Protecting the Local Interests: They can be very effective in protecting the local interests of the people.

• Purposeful Accountability: Strong and vibrant entities ensure both active participation and purposeful accountability.

• Citizen Involvement: Common citizens can be involved in decision-making concerning their lives, their needs, and above all, their development.

What were the historical foundations of Local Governments in India before and after Independence?Pre-Independence Local Governments in India:

• Village Communities: Self-governing village communities existed in India from the earliest times in the form of ‘Sabhas’ (village assemblies).
• Village Issue Resolution: In the course of time, these village bodies took the shape of Panchayats (an assembly of five persons), and these Panchayats resolved issues at the village level. 
• Elected Local Government: These government bodies (the local boards) were created after 1882. 
• Lord Rippon’s Initiative: Lord Rippon, who was the Viceroy of India at that time, took the initiative in creating these bodies.
• Government of India Act 1919: By the Government of India Act 1919, village panchayats were established in a number of provinces. 
  • This trend continued after the Government of India Act of 1935.

After Independence: Evolution of Indian Local Governments

• Community Development Programme (1952): The programme sought to promote people’s participation in local development in a range of activities. 
• Three-tier System: In this background, a three-tier Panchayati Raj System was recommended for the rural areas.
• P.K.Thungon Committee (1989):  The committee recommended constitutional recognition for the local bodies.
• 73rd and 74th Constitution Amendment Acts 1992: Local governments got a fillip after these two amendment Acts, as they provided for periodic elections to local government institutions, and enlistment of appropriate functions to them, along with funds.

Conclusion:

• The Panchayati Raj system was introduced in 1993 through constitutional amendments, empowering rural and urban local bodies. 
  • This move aimed to decentralize power, enhance community participation, and address local issues effectively.
  • Today, local government in India plays a crucial role in delivering essential services and promoting grassroots democracy.