Panchayati Raj Institutions in Jharkhand: A Critical Analysis of Santhal Pargana Division

This study critically analyses the implementation of democratic decentralization and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Jharkhand, with a focus on the Santhal Pargana Division. It examines the disjunction between legislative intent and ground realities, highlighting issues such as legal ambiguities, political apathy, bureaucratic resistance, and the enduring influence of traditional governance systems. These structural and institutional contradictions have hindered the genuine empowerment of local communities. Adopting a mixed-methods and case study approach grounded in legal and policy analysis, the study identifies key impediments and proposes reforms to strengthen democratic decentralization in tribal regions.