Enhancing public participation in Gram Sabha: Identifying barriers and developing effective strategies - a case study of Tufanganj-I Block, Cooch Behar, West Bengal

Abstract

The Gram Sabha serves as the constitutional platform for participatory governance within the Gram Panchayat. The absence of awareness, interest, favourable disposition, comprehension, and consensus among Gram Sabha members frequently results in restricted attendance and engagement. The current state of the Gram Sabha's operations across much of the country is quite precarious, given the premises upon which it was established. Following a thorough assessment of these specific aspects, the current study reveals that rural populations possess inadequate understanding of Panchayati Raj Institutions and the developmental initiatives enacted for their advantage. The citizen participation in the Gram Sabha in Tufanganj I Block of Cooch Behar is more or less unsatisfactory. Individuals regard Gram Sabha as a simple formality, as representatives have already been elected. In this communication we have analysed obstacles to participation through gradual survey in the Gram Sabha meetings in Tufanganj I Block and delineates solutions to enhance engagement. Also, we have enlightened the ways of increasing people’s participation in Tufanganj-I Block, Cooch Behar, West Bengal. These approaches would also facilitate enhanced participation and engagement in Gram Sabha, so reinforcing the democratic process in other regions of the country.