Chapter: Challenges faced by Indian Democracy· Political Science
Answer: Laws such as the Right to Information Act, compulsory disclosure of details by candidates, and election reforms by the Election Commission have been introduced to make the political process transparent.
- Right to Information Act, 2005: any citizen can ask for information about government decisions and work, so officials and representatives become answerable to the people.
- Disclosure by candidates: every candidate contesting an election must file an affidavit giving details of property, educational qualifications and any criminal cases. Voters can make an informed choice.
- Election Commission measures: the model code of conduct, limits on and scrutiny of election expenses, use of electronic voting machines and photo identity cards for voters reduce malpractices such as bogus voting.
- Steps against corruption: institutions like the Lokpal and Lokayukta and the use of e-governance make administration more open.
- Decentralisation: the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments gave power to local self-government bodies, bringing decision-making closer to the people.
Alert citizens, a free press and active social organisations also help keep the political process transparent.