iii. Constitutional provisions of the Amendment
- Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) were made constitutional bodies.
- Every state had an obligation to establish panchayats in their territories. (Article 243-B)
- The State has the responsibility to develop powers, responsibilities, and authorities to the panchayats. (Article 243-G)
- The panchayats are elected for a tenure of 5 years.
- The amendment provides for a mechanism for the state election commission to conduct independent elections for the village panchayats.
- The amendment provides for an adequate representation of women, SCs, and STs in the village Panchayati Raj Institutions.
- It is the duty of the State Finance Commission to evaluate the financial position of the village panchayats.