The Orissa high court has criticized the practice of men controlling panchayat affairs and developmental work despite the reservation of one-third of seats for women. The court stated that this undermines the purpose of empowering women in grassroots politics and violates their constitutional rights and dignity. It has called on the government to specify the steps taken to empower women panchayat heads and members. The court also suggested the need for policies to prevent and punish such proxy politics.