Accountability in Public Service

In the context of public service, ‘accountability’ means that public servants are responsible for their actions and decisions, ensuring they act transparently, ethically, and in the public’s interest. It involves being answerable to the public, lawmakers, and regulatory bodies for the use of resources and the outcomes of their actions.

Measures to Ensure Accountability

1. Transparent Reporting and Documentation: Public servants must maintain detailed records of their decisions and transactions. For instance, the RTI Act 2005 in India enhances transparency by allowing citizens to access information about public administration.
2. Regular Audits and Inspections: Independent audits and inspections help ensure compliance with laws and regulations. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India conducts audits to verify financial and operational practices in government departments.
3. Performance Evaluations: Regular performance reviews assess the effectiveness and integrity of public servants. The Aadhaar Performance Review (2023) examined the efficiency of the Aadhaar system and its management.
4. Ethics Training and Codes of Conduct: Training and adherence to codes of conduct ensure ethical behavior. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) provides guidelines and conducts training to prevent corruption.
5. Public Feedback Mechanisms: Establishing grievance redressal systems allows citizens to report issues and seek resolution. For example, the Public Grievance Redressal System on the MyGov platform facilitates public complaints and feedback.

By implementing these measures, accountability can be strengthened, promoting effective and responsible public service.