Correct Option
The correct option is (b).
Explanation
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). However, under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, 'Local Government' is a subject listed in the State List (List II). Therefore, the implementation of the Panchayati Raj system relies on state legislations.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The 73rd Amendment Act provides a broad framework consisting of mandatory and voluntary provisions. While states must adopt the mandatory provisions (such as the three-tier structure, five-year tenure, and reservation policies), they are not required to follow the exact same laws as defined by the Central Government. The specific details and implementation are left to the State Legislatures.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Since Local Government is a state subject, each state has the authority to enact its own laws regarding Panchayats. These state laws must align with the constitutional guidelines provided in Part IX of the Constitution, but they allow for variations based on local needs, particularly regarding the voluntary provisions (such as the devolution of powers and the mode of election for certain posts).
Key Takeaway: The Constitution provides the structural framework for Panchayats through the 73rd Amendment, but the detailed legislation and administration are the prerogative of the State Governments, as Local Government is a State List subject.