The correct option is A body comprising all registered voters in the village..
Explanation
The Gram Sabha is the foundational institution of the Panchayati Raj system, representing direct democracy at the village level. Its composition and powers are defined under Article 243A committee of elected representatives of the district. and Article 243A of the Constitution of India, introduced by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992.
Option Analysis
- A body comprising all registered voters in the village. is Correct: The Gram Sabha is a body consisting of all persons whose names are included in the electoral rolls for the Panchayat at the village level. Essentially, it comprises all registered voters in the village area.
- A committee of elected representatives of the district. is Incorrect: A committee of elected representatives constitutes the Gram Panchayat (the executive body), not the Gram Sabha (the general assembly).
- An executive body appointed by the Zilla Parishad. is Incorrect: The Gram Sabha is not an appointed body; it is a permanent body consisting of the village electorate. It is not constituted by the Zilla Parishad.
- A judicial body for resolving village disputes. is Incorrect: The Gram Sabha is primarily a deliberative and supervisory body that discusses development plans and audits the Panchayat's performance. It is not a judicial body; judicial functions in rural areas are historically associated with Nyaya Panchayats, which are distinct entities.
Key Takeaway: The Gram Sabha is the only permanent body in the Panchayati Raj system and consists exclusively of all registered voters within the village, serving as a platform for direct democracy.