Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
The Powerhouse of Local Self-Governance Through People's Participation
What is Grama Sabha?
A Grama Sabha consists of all persons whose names are included in the electoral roll of a village falling within the area of the Grama Panchayat.
01. Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha Member
A voter in a ward is a member of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha of that ward.
02. Convener
Ward Members and Ward Councillors are the Conveners of the Grama Sabhas and Ward Sabhas, respectively. A substitute may be appointed in necessary circumstances.
03. Chairperson
The Grama Panchayat President presides over the Grama Sabha, and the Municipal Chairperson presides over the Ward Sabha. In their absence, the responsibility may be handed over to other designated authorities.
04. Convening the Meeting
The responsibility of convening the meeting of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha rests with the Convener.
05. Quorum
The quorum is 10% of the total voters. When a meeting adjourned for lack of quorum is reconvened, the quorum shall be 50 members.
- Quorum: 10%
- Reconvened meeting quorum: 50 members
06. Right to Call a Special Meeting
If at least 10% of the voters in a ward request in writing, a special meeting must be convened within 15 days.
- Minimum request: 10% of voters
- Meeting timeline: Within 15 days
07. Coordinator
An officer designated by the Grama Panchayat or Municipality will function as the Coordinator and assist the Convener.
08. Questions and Suggestions
Members have the right to submit questions and suggestions in writing before or during the meeting.
09. Resolutions
Resolutions can be passed on subjects within the jurisdiction of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha based on a majority decision.
10. Powers and Functions of Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
A. Scheme Planning and Implementation
- Assist in gathering necessary data required for formulating development schemes.
- Prepare proposals and fix priorities for development programs and schemes to be implemented.
- Examine draft projects and set their order of priority.
- Provide and mobilize voluntary labor, financial assistance, and materials.
B. Public Amenity Projects
- Recommend locations for installing streetlights.
- Determine the locations for public water supply taps, public wells, and sanitation systems.
- Suggest other public amenity projects, including irrigation facilities.
C. Public Works
- Know the estimates and expenditure details of works that have been implemented or are proposed to be implemented.
- Monitor and assist the activities of Beneficiary Committees.
- Collect detailed information regarding the works proposed to be undertaken in the area.