Consider the following statements: I. Panchayats at the intermediate level exist in all States. II. To be eligible to be a Member of a Panchayat at the intermediate level, a person should attain the age of thirty years. III. The Chief Minister of a State constitutes a commission to review the financial position of Panchayats at the intermediate levels and to make recommendations regarding the distribution of net proceeds of taxes and duties, leviable by the State, between the State and Panchayats at the intermediate level. Which of the statements given above are not correct?

1. A. I and II only
2. B. II and III only
3. C. I and III only
4. D. I, II and III

Answer: D

Explanation

Statement I is incorrect. Article 243B of the Constitution, inserted by the 73rd Amendment Act, mandates a three-tier Panchayati Raj system. However, it explicitly states that states with a population not exceeding 20 lakhs are not obligated to constitute Panchayats at the intermediate level. Thus, intermediate Panchayats do not exist in all states. Statement II is incorrect. Article 243F(1)(a) specifies that a person must have attained the age of 21 years to be eligible for election as a member of a Panchayat. The age of thirty years is not a requirement. Statement III is incorrect. Article 243-I mandates the Governor of a State (not the Chief Minister) to constitute a Finance Commission every five years. This commission reviews the financial position of Panchayats at all levels and makes recommendations regarding the distribution of state taxes and duties. Since all three statements are incorrect, the correct option is D. Understanding the constitutional provisions related to Panchayati Raj is fundamental for UPSC Polity & Governance.