EA

Eshani AnandAIR 79· 2023

Question Q.6GS2GS2

हाल ही में एक राज्य में सामाजिक जवाबदेही कानून बनाने को लेकर मांग उठ रही है. इस तरह का कानून किस प्रकार सुशासन की ओर ले जा सकता है और निर्णय लेने में नागरिकों की भागीदारी को कैसे बढ़ावा दे सकता है? टिप्पणी कीजिए। Recently demand has been rising in a state regarding the enactment of Social Accountability Law. How such a law can lead to good governance and boost citizens' participation in decision-making. Comment.

Open scan (p.15)

Introduction

India's rank in Democracy Index (by Economist Intelligence Unit) has heralded a review of our 'Social accountability'. It is placed 52 and there is dearth of citizen centric participation.

29 words

Main Body

LAW CAN LEAD TO GOOD GOVERNANCE:-

8 Principles by UNDP can be achieved with law: Transparency, Accountability, Efficiency, Ethical Governance, Innovation, Rule of Law, Participatory Democracy, Consensus oriented approach

The law can aid in the above:-

1Consensus oriented: Citizens, stakeholder based approach
2Participatory decision-making: Gram Sabhas can be involved
3Rule of law and not -> policy loopholes, arbitrary rule making
4Institutional Quality -> Tech-enabled Eg: such as Prajatil e-groups -> Grievance redressal, Transparency and accountability

LAW LEADS TO CITIZENS PARTICIPATION:-

1Grass root level democracy
2Involvement of development industry [SHG, NGOs etc]
3Participation of women (Mahila Sabhas, Badlav Didis of Madhya Pradesh)
4Boosts Right to Information, data driven decision making.

However some caution is needed:-

a) Law must be simple and comprehensive

b) Enforceability should not be tokenised by lack of political will

c) POLITICAL LITERACY is needed to be boosted.

148 words4 paragraphs

Conclusion

Way Forward: Social Accountability Law can be a 'moral control of political democracy' (MODERN) in hands of people. This can ensure a resilient government in partnership with people.

28 words

Diagram

Octagon diagram showing 8 principles by UNDP: Transparency, Accountability, Efficiency, Ethical Governance, Innovation, Rule of Law, Participatory Democracy, Consensus oriented approach

Topper

Eshani Anand

AIR 792023

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Governance, Transparency, Accountability and E-governance

Transparency and Accountability

Social Accountability Law

Writing Stats

205

Total words

4

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone