(1) For general watch and ward, prevention of crime, protection of life and property and discharging all functions relevant thereto as hereinafter provided within the local limits of the jurisdiction of a Gram Panchayat every Gram Panchayat shall, unless otherwise directed or other provisions are made by the State Government, maintain under its control such number of Dafadars and Chowkidars as the State Government may by general or special order determine.
(2) The number of Dafadars and Chowkidars to be maintained by a Gram Panchayat and the salary, allowances and gratuity to be paid to them and the nature and the cost of their equipment and all matters relating to their recruitment, conditions of service, superannuation, discipline, punishment and dismissal shall be determined in accordance with such rules as may be made:
Provided that the Gram Panchayat shall have disciplinary control over Dafadars and Chowkidars.
38. The State Government may contribute to the Gram Panchayat Fund the entire or any part of the cost of maintenance of Dafadars and Chowkidars including the amount necessary for the payment of salary, allowances, provident fund and gratuity to Dafadars and Chowkidars and the amount necessary for their reward and equipment.