GRAMSABHA MEMBERS QUALIFICATION AND DISQUALIFICATION

The qualifications and disqualifications for Gram Sabha members are provided for under the provisions of the Indian Constitution, particularly under Part IX (Articles 243 to 243O).

1. Qualifications: The qualifications for Gram Sabha members are generally determined by the respective state legislatures. However, Article 243F of the Indian Constitution provides some broad guidelines:
   • Article 243F: It states that a person shall be qualified to be chosen as a member of a Panchayat if they:
     • Are registered as a voter in the electoral rolls of the concerned Panchayat area.
     • Are not less than 21 years of age.
     • Possess such other qualifications as may be prescribed by the state legislature.
   • The state legislatures have the authority to prescribe additional qualifications for Gram Sabha members, such as educational qualifications or residency requirements, through appropriate legislation.
2. Disqualifications: The disqualifications for Gram Sabha members are also laid down in the Indian Constitution, particularly under Article 243F and other relevant laws:
   • Article 243F: It states that a person shall be disqualified for being chosen as a member of a Panchayat if they:
     • Are so disqualified by or under any law for the time being in force for the purposes of elections to the legislature of the state concerned.
     • Have been disqualified by any law made by the legislature of the state.
   • Additionally, certain common disqualifications applicable to elected representatives may also apply, such as bankruptcy, unsoundness of mind, conviction for certain offenses, etc.

It’s important to note that while the Constitution provides these broad guidelines, the specific qualifications and disqualifications for Gram Sabha members may vary from state to state, as they are often prescribed by the respective state legislatures through their own Panchayati Raj Acts or rules.