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February 21, 2026Open Access

Transforming Grassroots Democracy: The Evolution and Impact of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments

Key Points

The study aims to assess the impact of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments on grassroots democracy in India.
Evaluation of historical context and necessity for the amendments
Analysis of structural provisions of PRIs and ULBs
Examination of secondary data on political inclusivity effects
Assessment of challenges faced post-amendments
The amendments established a three-tier federal structure for enhanced local governance.
Mandatory reservations improved representation for women and marginalized groups.
Challenges persist, including reliance on state finances and bureaucratic control.

Abstract

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts of 1992 represent a watershed moment in India's democratic journey, fundamentally altering the country's federal structure from a two-tier system to a robust three-tier framework. By granting constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), these amendments sought to institutionalize grassroots democracy and promote decentralized planning. This research paper evaluates the historical necessity, structural provisions, and subsequent impact of these amendments on local self-governance. Through a detailed analysis of secondary data, the study explores how mandatory reservations for women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes have fostered political inclusivity. However, it also highlights persistent challenges, including fiscal dependency on state governments, bureaucratic interference, and the uneven devolution of powers. The paper concludes that while the legal framework for empowerment exists, real transformation depends on enhancing the functional and financial autonomy of local bodies to achieve true

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