The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The Gram Sabha is the foundational institution of the Panchayati Raj system, established under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992. It represents a direct democracy platform where villagers participate in local governance.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Gram Sabha is described as a meeting of all adults who live in the area covered by a Panchayat. It is the general assembly of the village where local issues are discussed and the Gram Panchayat is held accountable.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The jurisdiction of a Gram Sabha is not strictly limited to a single village. A Gram Panchayat may cover a single village or a group of villages, depending on state laws and population density. Therefore, the Gram Sabha comprises adults from all villages within that Panchayat's area.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Membership in the Gram Sabha is determined by electoral eligibility. Any individual who is 18 years of age or older and has the right to vote (i.e., is registered in the electoral rolls of the village) is automatically a member.
Key Takeaway:
The Gram Sabha is a permanent body consisting of all registered voters in the area of a Panchayat, which may comprise one or more villages.