Which statement best describes the evolution of accountability mechanisms in Indian governance?
- Accountability relies solely on judicial intervention
- A multi-institutional framework combining legislative oversight, independent bodies, transparency laws, and citizen participation has evolved to strengthen accountability
- Executive self-regulation is sufficient for ensuring accountability
- Accountability mechanisms are uniform across all levels of government
Answer: A multi-institutional framework combining legislative oversight, independent bodies, transparency laws, and citizen participation has evolved to strengthen accountability
India's accountability evolution: (a) Traditional: Parliamentary committees, CAG audit, judicial review, (b) Post-1990s reforms: RTI Act (2005), CVC statutory status (2003), Lokpal Act (2013), NHRC (1993), (c) Grassroots: Social audit (MGNREGA), Gram Sabha, Citizen's Charter, (d) Technology: CPGRAMS, e-Governance, Digital India. Multi-layered framework recognizes that no single mechanism suffices; effectiveness depends on institutional independence, capacity building, political will, and active citizen engagement. Continuous refinement needed to address emerging challenges like digital governance, campaign finance, regulatory capture.