Advanced International Journal for Research

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Electoral Politics in Thoubal District, Manipur : PRIs Elections and Rural Development

Author(s) Dr. Kh. Ronendrajit Singh, Dr. E. Girani Singh
Country India
Abstract This article explains patterns of PRIs elections in rural areas, the role of voters, and the manner in which voters often pressure candidates for money. Candidates who lose panchayat elections frequently face serious financial distress due to heavy campaign spending, making it difficult for them to return to their previous economic position. In case of this trend continues, rural areas may experience serious social unrest. Despite the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), no significant improvement in the living standards or economic conditions of villagers is visible in Manipur. Instead, the Act has contributed to a disturbing situation during panchayat elections by encouraging money-oriented electoral practices. It is, therefore, necessary to debate whether the Act should continue in its present form in Manipur or be restructured to prevent large-scale corruption and moral decline. The Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are constitutionally mandated to promote grassroots democracy and rural development in India. In Manipur, particularly in Thoubal district, PRIs play a crucial role in linking electoral politics with local development planning and implementation. This study examines the electoral politics of PRIs in Thoubal district and assesses their role in rural development. It analyses the structure and functioning of Gram Panchayats (GP) and Zilla Parishads (ZP), patterns of electoral competition, leadership dynamics, political party influence, and the impact of delayed or irregular elections on democratic participation. The paper also evaluates the role of PRIs in implementing rural development programmes related to infrastructure, livelihoods, sanitation, and social welfare. It argues that although PRIs in Thoubal district have the potential to function as effective instruments of participatory development, their performance has been constrained by political instability, inadequate devolution of powers and finances, excessive administrative control, and the prolonged postponement of elections. The absence of elected representatives has weakened accountability and reduced community participation in development processes. The study concludes that strengthening electoral processes, ensuring regular PRIs elections and deepening decentralisation are essential for enhancing rural development and democratic governance in Thoubal district, Manipur, highlighting about the apathetic towards the PRIs generally.
Keywords grassroots democracy, electoral competition, social welfare, political instability, democratic participation.
Field Sociology > Archaeology / History
Published In Volume 7, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On 2026-02-09
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E-ISSN 3048-7641
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