A Comparative Analysis Mahi Pal WITHIN two years, elections to the Lok Sabha were held in February. Prior to them in the media the stand of the political parties on issues relating to stability, corruption and secularism were projected through their manifestos. But what did these political, parties had to say on strengthening the panchayati raj system, which is the only instrument to enable the masses to participate in nation building from below by introducing accountability and transparency in governance? And what have these political parties done during the last 18 months or more in this area? It may be mentioned here that as a result of the 73rd constitutional amendment, about 34 lakh elected representatives of panchayats at all levels have been in position as members and chairpersons. This represents the broadest base at the grass roots in the world and cannot be ignored without hurting the nation's interests. Here, we attempt to compare the various election manifestos and evaluate critically how these parties have performed in creating viable and pulsating panchayats in the states where they were in power.
