The correct option is (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, institutionalized the Panchayati Raj System in India. At the foundation of this system lies the Gram Sabha, a body consisting of all persons registered in the electoral rolls of a village comprised within the area of a Panchayat (Article 243A). Unlike the Gram Panchayat, which is an elected representative body, the Gram Sabha is a permanent body.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Assertion (A): Correct. The Gram Sabha is considered a mechanism of direct democracy because every registered voter in the village directly participates in its meetings. Unlike the Parliament or State Legislatures, where citizens participate indirectly through elected representatives, the Gram Sabha allows citizens to discuss, debate, and decide on local issues directly.
- Reason (R): Correct. The Gram Sabha exercises control over the Gram Panchayat. It is empowered to conduct social audits, identify beneficiaries for schemes, and review the utilization of funds. By scrutinizing the actions, expenditure, and performance of the elected Gram Panchayat, the Gram Sabha ensures transparency and accountability.
Reasoning for the Link
The assertion states that the Gram Sabha functions as a mechanism of direct democracy. The reason explains how this direct democracy is operationalized. It is precisely through the power to hold the elected representatives (Gram Panchayat) accountable for funds and implementation that the Gram Sabha exercises its direct democratic authority. Without this oversight function, the concept of direct democracy would remain theoretical. Therefore, R is the correct explanation of A.
Key Takeaway: The Gram Sabha represents direct democracy (participation of all voters), whereas the Gram Panchayat represents representative democracy (elected members). The former holds the latter accountable.