Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha
Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
A cornerstone of local self-government through people's participation
What is a Grama Sabha?
Members of the Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
All persons whose names are included in the electoral roll of a village within the jurisdiction of a Grama Panchayat constitute the Grama Sabha of that village. A voter of a particular ward is a member of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha of that ward.
Convener
Ward Members and Ward Councillors are the respective Conveners of Grama Sabhas and Ward Sabhas. Where necessary, an alternate person may be appointed to discharge the responsibilities of the Convener.
Chairperson
The President of the Grama Panchayat presides over the Grama Sabha. In the case of a Ward Sabha, the Municipal Chairperson presides over the meeting. In the absence of the designated authority, the responsibility may be assigned to another authorised person.
Convening the Meeting
The responsibility for convening meetings of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha rests with the Convener.
Quorum
The quorum for a meeting is 10% of the total number of voters. When an adjourned meeting is reconvened due to lack of quorum, the quorum shall be 50 members.
Right to Request a Special Meeting
If at least 10% of the voters of a ward submit a written request, a special meeting shall be convened within 15 days.
Coordinator
An officer appointed by the Grama Panchayat or Municipality shall function as the Coordinator and assist the Convener in carrying out the responsibilities of the Sabha.
Questions and Suggestions
Members have the right to submit questions and suggestions in writing either before the meeting or during the meeting.
Resolutions
Resolutions may be adopted by majority vote on matters falling within the jurisdiction of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha.
10. Powers and Responsibilities of the Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
- Assist in collecting information required for the formulation of development projects.
- Prepare proposals for development projects and programmes to be implemented and determine their priorities.
- Examine draft projects and determine the order of priority.
- Provide and mobilise voluntary labour, financial assistance and material support for development activities.
- Suggest locations where street lights are required.
- Identify suitable locations for public water-supply taps, public wells and sanitation facilities.
- Suggest irrigation facilities and other public utility projects required in the area.
- Obtain information regarding estimates and expenditure relating to completed and proposed works.
- Monitor and assist the functioning of beneficiary committees.
- Collect detailed information regarding works proposed to be implemented in the locality.