Why it is in the news
At a meeting on 2 October 2026, the gram sabha of Punpalli in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, citing the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) because the village lies in a Fifth Schedule area, adopted 12 resolutions. A banner now bars the entry of pastors for religious activities and any event for religious conversion; according to a local Janpad Panchayat member, one resolution also denies land for burials to tribals who follow Christianity. The matter was reported on 6–7 October 2026.
The exam angle
Issue: Where does a gram sabha's PESA power to protect customs and cultural identity end and an individual's Fundamental Right to equality, faith and dignity begin?