Vol. 5, Issue 1, Part A (2023)

In this study, a total of 572 members of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) were randomly selected from the population being studied. Exploratory-cum-descriptive research design was used, and both primary and secondary data sources were utilized. The results of the study show that Panches cast their vote in any election after discussing with one another, while Sarpanches and Block Samiti Members prefer newspapers, TV, radio, and signboards as sources of information to cast their vote in any election. Family background is the most motivating factor for Panches, whereas family background, interest in politics, and local issues worked as motivator factors for Sarpanches, Block Samiti Members, and Zila Parishad Members to fight elections at different levels of PRIs. Maximum Panches are elected on reserved seats such as reserved for women and reserved for scheduled castes. It has been observed that Panches took part in mass movements, while others took part in encamps, strikes, demonstrations, and marches. The results of the study reveal that the father, husband, mother-in-law, father-in-law, and daughter-in-law background of maximum PRIs Members attached them with different political parties. Panches work as party workers, whereas Sarpanches and Block Samiti Members attend political rallies and make posters for their affiliated political parties. Zila Parishad Members attend political rallies, make posters and advertisements for their party, and appeal to vote in favour of their concerned political party.