Barriers to grassroots democracy: Examining the impediments of people’s participation in the governance of gram panchayats in Tripura, with policy insights

This research paper aims to identify the impediments to people’s participation in the governance of Gram Panchayat in Tripura, specifically focusing on three selected Gram Panchayats of Unakoti District. These Gram Panchayats are Jarultali, Chantail, and Bilashpur Gram Panchayat, operating under the Chandipur Rural Development Block. The study used qualitative methods, including interviews to gather insights from the respondents. The findings revealed various socio-cultural, economic, and institutional impediments hindering effective people’s participation. This paper contributes to understanding rural local governance dynamics in Tripura and offers effective policy recommendations for enhancing people’s participation in the governance of Gram Panchayat in Tripura.