Panchayati Raj Institutions Overview
Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs) are a three-tier system of local self-governance in rural India, established to promote democratic decentralization and empower local communities. However, their implementation varies across different states.
States with Special Provisions
- Certain regions in India, especially those with special provisions under the Constitution, may not have standard PRIs.
- Jammu and Kashmir, prior to the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, had its own governance structure that did not align with the traditional Panchayati Raj system.
Jammu and Kashmir's Unique Status
- Historically, Jammu and Kashmir was granted special autonomy under Article 370, allowing it to maintain its own laws and governance structures.
- The PRIs were not applicable in Jammu and Kashmir due to this special status and the unique political situation in the region.
Current Scenario
- After the abrogation of Article 370, there have been efforts to integrate Jammu and Kashmir into the broader framework of Indian governance, including the potential implementation of PRIs.
- However, as of the latest updates, traditional Panchayati Raj institutions were not fully established in Jammu and Kashmir, making it distinct compared to states like Bihar, Meghalaya, and Mizoram, where PRIs are operational.
Conclusion
In conclusion, option 'A' (Jammu and Kashmir) is correct because the state historically operated outside the traditional Panchayati Raj framework, largely due to its special constitutional provisions.