Indian Kanoon - Search engine for Indian Law

36. Having considered the rival contentions, we are of the view that the contention raised on behalf of the petitioners is not correct Article 243G of the Constitution of India which deals with the powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats, provides as follows :

"243-G. Powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats.--Subject to the provisions of the Constitution, the Legislature of a State may, by law, endow the Panchayats with such powers and authority and may be necessary to enable them to function as institutions of self-Government and such law may contain provisions for the devolution of powers and responsibilities upon Panchayats at the appropriate level, subject to such conditions as may be specified therein, with respect to-

(a) the preparation of plans for economic development and social justice,

(b) the implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice as may be entrusted to them including those in relation to the matters listed in the Eleventh Schedule."

37. Thus, the powers and authority are to be conferred on the Panchayats by the State Legislature by enacting law. Such law may, inter-alia, provide for devolution of powers and responsibilities upon Panchayats in relation to the matters listed in the Eleventh Schedule to the Constitution of India.