Have you wondered about what a Gram Sabha is? Have you thought about what you could do to voice your concerns or opinions?
Priyanka and Alok’s experience with Ward Sabhas in Bihar
When water became scarce in Sitamarhi district of Bihar, Priyanka and Alok decided they would try to solve the challenge as it affected them and many near them. They gathered volunteers and conducted a Water Audit that identified the nature of the issue.
Following this, they participated in a Ward Sabha to discuss the water crises. They called for a Ward Sabha as citizens of the Ward. Elected representatives, citizens of the ward and the volunteers attended and presented findings from the Water Audit. For the first time, the issue of poor water supply was acknowledged and documented in the Ward Sabha. Following this, the representatives shared ways in which it can be solved using existing schemes and policies such as Har Ghar Nal Se Jal Yojana that is active in Bihar.
> By organising a Ward Sabha meeting, Priyanka and Alok were able to get everyone’s focus on the water issue that was affecting all their lives.
As Alok shares “We do not have to wait for our Elected Representatives to call a Ward or Gram Sabha to discuss important issues. We should be able to do it on our own and keep them informed - it is their duty to show up after that.”
What are Gram Sabhas?
A Gram Sabha is a village meeting where anyone who is a registered voter in the village can participate. According to our Constitution (73rd Amendment), every village must have a Gram Panchayat with:
- Elected representatives chosen by village voters
- Government workers who provide services to citizens
Each Gram Panchayat must hold at least three Gram Sabhas every year. These meetings are usually held on:
- Republic Day (January 26)
- Independence Day (August 15)
- Gandhi Jayanti (October 2)
You can check the exact dates by visiting your Gram Panchayat office.
What topics can I discuss at a Gram Sabha?
As a resident of your village and a voter on the electoral rolls, you have a right to participate in the Gram Sabha happening in your village. Here are a few topics you can raise:
- Water supply and access
- Waste management practices
- Animal husbandry related activities
- Forest or river rights
- Roads and other public assets
- School education related grievances
- Health related issues like hospitals or prominent diseases
There are a total of over 25 such subjects that the Constitution mandates for each Gram Panchayat. They can be found here. Be sure to read it carefully before participating in one. You can ask questions about existing schemes, share problems you are facing and ask for solutions within a time period of your choice.
Gram Sabhas can be organised to discuss one specific issue or can cover many issues as well. In Karnataka, Makkalu Gram Sabhas are also organised to hear the thoughts and concerns of children in the village.
But then what are Ward Sabhas?
Ward Sabha’s are similar to a Gram Sabha but at a smaller scale because many Wards make one Gram Panchayat.
What are the issues that are troubling you in your village? Do you think you can bring a few of your friends together like Priyanaka and Alok did to attend the next Ward or Gram Sabha and share these issues?
Share your thoughts in the comments section, we will engage with you on how to get going!
