Q. Who is the head of the panchayat in every Santhal village?
Answer: Manjhi
Notes: In every Santhal village in Jharkhand, the traditional panchayat is headed by the Manjhi. The Manjhi is the village headman with administrative and judicial powers. He convenes gram sabhas, settles disputes, collects rent, and permits marriages. The Manjhi is assisted by officials such as Paranik (deputy), Godait (messenger), Jog Manjhi (youth guardian), and Naike (priest).