Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
The Stronghold of Local Self-Government through People’s Participation
What is a Grama Sabha?
A Grama Sabha consists of all persons whose names are included in the electoral roll of a village within the jurisdiction of a Grama Panchayat.
Member of Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
A voter of a particular ward is a member of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha of that ward.
Convenor
Ward Members and Ward Councillors are respectively the Convenors of Grama Sabhas and Ward Sabhas. Where necessary, a substitute may be appointed.
Chairperson
The President of the Grama Panchayat shall preside over the Grama Sabha, and the Municipal Chairperson shall preside over the Ward Sabha. In their absence, the responsibility may be entrusted to other authorities.
Convening the Meeting
The responsibility for convening the meeting of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha rests with the Convenor.
Quorum
The quorum is 10% of the total number of voters. When an adjourned meeting is reconvened due to the quorum not being met, the quorum shall be 50 members.
Right to Convene 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 Convenor.
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 passed by majority vote on matters falling within the jurisdiction of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha.
Powers and Responsibilities of the Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
A. Planning and Implementation of Projects
- Assist in collecting information required for formulating development projects.
- Prepare proposals for projects and development programmes to be implemented and determine their priorities.
- Examine draft projects and determine the order of priority.
- Provide and mobilise voluntary services, financial assistance, and material assistance.
B. Public Utility Projects
- Suggest locations where street lights are to be installed.
- Determine the locations of public water-supply taps, public wells, and sanitation facilities.
- Suggest other public utility projects, including irrigation facilities.
C. Public Works
- Obtain information regarding the estimates and expenditure details of completed or proposed works.
- Monitor and assist the activities of Beneficiary Committees.
- Collect detailed information about the works proposed to be implemented in the area.
