Panchayati Raj Program Success Story

According to the provisions outlined in the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act and related rules, specific arrangements are mandated for the seating of elected Panchayat representatives and other government officials in their respective Panchayat offices. However, in Gram Panchayat Chahri, Block Nagrota Bagwan, District Kangra, Smt. Chaya Devi, who contested the election for the first time from the reserved category, found herself relegated to a corner chair due to male dominance within the Gram Panchayat. Overwhelmed by shyness and hesitation, Smt. Chaya Devi was unable to voice her concern.

When observant members of the local Mahila Mandal became aware of this issue, they discussed it within their Mahila Mandal group. Subsequently, they visited the Panchayat Ghar (Gram Panchayat Office) and addressed the matter with great diligence. They emphasized that their Gram Panchayat Pradhan, Smt. Chaya Devi, holds the constitutional position as the head of the Gram Panchayat and represents and leads 1839 people. Therefore, it was imperative to provide her with seating arrangements befitting her post and designation. Following this intervention, other officials within the Gram Panchayat acknowledged their mistake.

This issue extends beyond a mere chair; it underscores the importance of upholding the dignity of a woman elected representative who holds the constitutional position of Gram Panchayat head.

In the aftermath of this incident, the Panchayat Pradhan expressed her gratitude towards the CORD Panchayati Raj Program. Under this program, Mahila Mandal members were sensitized and made aware of their rights and responsibilities.