RAS question
Which of the following is NOT a constitutional provision under the 73rd Amendment?
Correct answer: (C) Provision of judicial powers to Panchayats.
The 73rd Amendment does not make the grant of judicial powers to Panchayats a constitutional provision.
Explanation
The 73rd Amendment framework for Panchayats, reflected in Part IX of the Constitution, provides for institutional and electoral features such as the Gram Sabha, reservation of seats, State Finance Commission and State Election Commission. Article 243A recognises the Gram Sabha and allows it to exercise powers and perform functions at the village level as State law provides. Article 243-I requires the Governor to constitute a Finance Commission to review Panchayat finances. Article 243K vests the preparation of electoral rolls and conduct of Panchayat elections in the State Election Commission. Article 243D provides for reservation. None of these provisions grants judicial powers to Panchayats, so option C is the item outside the 73rd Amendment scheme.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) State Finance Commission is a constitutional feature because Article 243-I requires the Governor to constitute one to review the financial position of Panchayats.
- (B) Gram Sabha is covered by Article 243A, which lets it exercise powers and perform village-level functions as State law provides.
- (D) State Election Commission is expressly provided under Article 243K for the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of Panchayat elections.
Concept
This tests the constitutional design of Panchayati Raj under the 73rd Amendment, especially the difference between listed Part IX institutions and powers not constitutionally conferred. RAS often asks such exclusion questions because Article-level recall is central to Rajasthan polity preparation.