Which of the following statements is correct regarding Ashok Mehta Committee recommendations on Panchayat Raj System?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b). The Ashok Mehta Committee recommended that Nyaya Panchayats, which are local judicial bodies dealing with minor disputes, should be kept separate from the development functions of Panchayats. The committee suggested that Panchayati Raj institutions should focus on local governance and development, while judicial functions should remain distinct to avoid conflicts and inefficiency.
Additionally, the Ashok Mehta Committee recommended a two-tier Panchayat system, but it was Zilla Parishad at the district level and Mandal Panchayat. The goal was to make the system more efficient and participative, giving more power and autonomy to local governance bodies.
Information Booster:
1. The Ashok Mehta Committee (1977) was formed to review and reform the Panchayati Raj system.
2. It proposed a two-tier structure with Zilla Parishad at the district level and Mandal Panchayat for a group of villages.
3. The Committee stressed the need for decentralized power and suggested strengthening local governance by reducing state interference.
4. Nyaya Panchayats were recommended to remain separate from development Panchayats to focus solely on judicial functions.
5. It proposed mandatory reservation of seats for SCs and STs but did not emphasize the rotation of such reservations.
6. The participation of political parties in Panchayat elections was recommended to increase accountability.