Reservation of seats for Dalits in rural local bodies through the 73rd amendment of the Constitution has provided opportunities for them to empower themselves through decision-making. But a vital question is whether the stakeholders are equipped to participate in the process of governance and development given the caste structure and community practices in the rural communities. The volume takes up the way the Dalit representatives are discharging their duties in rural set-ups and their struggle to fight against discriminatory practices. With the focus on Tamil Nadu and based on an intensive fieldwork, the monograph points out the lack of a clear-cut manual for Panchayati Raj administration and highlights the need to develop the capacity of the Dalit Panchayat leaders. It also presents a report of the public hearing on land rights violations.