Debate on District Development Councils' impact on local governance in J&K
The article discusses the debate surrounding the District Development Councils (DDCs) in Jammu and Kashmir, formed in 2021. While supporters view them as a step towards grassroots democracy, critics argue they have impeded democratic decentralisation. DDCs were established via executive order, bypassing the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments' framework for elected rural and urban bodies. Critics contend that DDCs function as a parallel administrative authority, blurring lines of power and creating an imbalance in representation, thus centralising bureaucratic control rather than empowering local self-governance. The article calls for restoring the DPC model for genuine decentralisation.
Key Points
- DDCs in J&K were established by executive order, bypassing the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments.
- Supporters view DDCs as promoting grassroots democracy, while critics argue they centralise control and impede decentralisation.
- DDCs function as parallel administrative authorities, potentially weakening existing local bodies and blurring lines of power.
- There is an imbalance in representation due to unequal seat allocation across districts, skewing political voice.
- Genuine local democracy requires restoring the District Planning Committee (DPC) model and empowering local governments under constitutional amendments.
Exam Facts
- DDCs were formed in J&K in 2021 and completed their five-year term on February 24, 2026.
- The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts provide for elected rural and urban bodies.
- The District Planning Committee (DPC) is mandated under Article 243ZD of the Constitution.
- Srinagar (approx. 12 lakh population) and Kishtwar (approx. 2.5 lakh population) are allocated the same number of DDC members.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.