Ethics

Model Answer

Introduction

The introduction of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, along with media and judicial activism, has significantly enhanced transparency and accountability in the Indian government. However, these mechanisms have also encountered misuse, leading to unintended negative consequences. A notable issue is the growing fear among officials to make prompt decisions due to potential backlash and scrutiny.

Analysis of the Situation

Negative Impacts

Misuse of Mechanisms

The RTI Act, while a powerful tool, has been misused in some instances. For example, there have been cases where officials were inundated with numerous frivolous and repetitive RTI requests, wasting valuable time and resources (Srinivas, 2019). This misuse undermines the original intent of the Act, making it crucial to establish safeguards.

Fear of Repercussions

Media and judicial activism can create an environment where officials hesitate to make timely decisions. For instance, officers may fear negative media coverage or legal repercussions, which could hinder effective governance (Sharma, 2020). While accountability is vital, excessive fear can stifle prompt action.

Suggested Resolutions

Strengthening Mechanisms

To address these issues, clear guidelines for RTI requests should be established. This includes filtering out irrelevant or repetitive queries to reduce the burden on officials.

Training and Capacity Building

Training programs should be introduced to help officials navigate media and judicial activism. These workshops can clarify their roles and responsibilities, equipping them to handle scrutiny more effectively.

Promoting a Culture of Accountability

Encouraging proactive disclosure and clear communication can foster a culture where accountability and timely decision-making coexist. This approach helps build public trust while enabling officials to act decisively.

Balanced Media Coverage

Responsible journalism should be promoted, focusing on both positive and negative aspects of governance. This can lead to more constructive public discourse, reducing the fear of backlash for officials.

Strengthening Administrative Support

Providing adequate administrative assistance can help officials manage increased workloads due to transparency initiatives, allowing them to focus on effective governance.

Conclusion

While transparency and accountability mechanisms are essential for good governance, it is crucial to ensure they do not impede prompt decision-making. By striking a balance and promoting responsible usage of these mechanisms, we can achieve greater transparency while encouraging efficient governance.