The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Under Article 243S of the Indian Constitution (added by the 74th Amendment Act), Ward Committees are constituted in all municipalities having a population of three lakhs or more. They serve as a mechanism for decentralization, ensuring that local issues are addressed at the grassroots level within the municipality.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: While Ward Committees are statutory bodies, their functional purpose is to address problems and development issues specific to the territorial area of the ward(s). In the context of urban administration, they are the primary forum for resolving issues localized within a specific ward, such as water supply, sanitation, or street lighting.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: A Ward Committee typically consists of the elected Councillor(s) representing the ward(s) within that committee's jurisdiction. The Commissioner is the administrative head of the entire Municipal Corporation (appointed by the State Government), and the Mayor is the political head of the Corporation. They are not the standard members of individual Ward Committees; rather, they oversee the functioning of the entire municipality.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The Ward Committee system is designed to bridge the gap between citizens and the administration. It allows residents to directly contact their Ward Councillor to voice local grievances, ensuring accountability and quicker redressal of complaints.
Key Takeaway:
Ward Committees are constitutionally mandated in municipalities with a population of over 3 lakhs (Article 243S). They consist primarily of the Ward Councillor(s), not the Municipal Commissioner or Mayor.