These mechanisms are neither mentioned in the constitution nor are they created by a legislation of the parliament. These mechanisms are part and parcel of a democratic society. They include the following-
Role of Press and Media
Press and media are regarded as the fourth pillar of democracy. An independent and fearless journalism is sine qua non for the flourishing of any democracy. Such journalism ensures unbiased dissemination of information to make citizens aware about governmental processes and actions. Fearless journalism helps in bringing to the light corrupt activities performed by those in power. Such actions of the press and media prove to be an effective tool of ensuring accountability of the political executive.
- Investigative Journalism: Investigative journalism is an important tool used by the media to uncover corruption, mismanagement and abuse of power by the government and bring those responsible to justice. It also serves as a source of information for the public, and it helps to shed light on issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Tehelka Case of Investigative JournalismTehelka is an Indian news magazine that gained notoriety in 2001 for its use of sting operations to uncover corruption in high places. In March 2001, Tehelka conducted a sting operation in which reporters posing as arms dealers recorded senior government officials and members of the military accepting bribes in exchange for defence contracts. The resulting footage, which was widely disseminated by the magazine, sparked widespread public outrage and led to a number of high-level investigations and resignations. The Tehelka sting was notable for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated the power of investigative journalism to expose corruption and hold those in power accountable. Secondly, it showed the bravery of journalists who were willing to put themselves at risk in order to uncover the truth. And thirdly, it highlighted the challenges facing journalists in India, including political interference, legal threats, and physical violence. Despite the challenges, the Tehelka case remains an important example of the role that investigative journalism can play in promoting transparency and accountability in India. By shining a light on corruption and mismanagement, journalists help to ensure that those in power are held accountable for their actions and that the government is functioning in the best interests of the people. |
- Breaking News: The media has the ability to break news about government actions, policies, and decisions that can influence public opinion and create pressure for accountability.
- Coverage of Parliamentary Proceedings: The media covers the proceedings of the Parliament and provides the public with information about the debates and decisions made by the elected representatives.
- Platform for citizens: The media can also serve as a platform for citizens to voice their grievances, concerns and opinions, and to hold the government accountable for its actions. Moreover, the media can also bring attention to problems and issues faced by the public, and put pressure on the government to address those issues. For example, media coverage of poor living conditions in certain areas or the lack of access to basic amenities such as clean water and sanitation can raise awareness and lead to government action.
- Public Discourse: The media provides a platform for public discourse and debate on important issues, including government policies and actions. This helps in holding the government accountable by exposing its flaws and shortcomings to the public.
- Exposing Corruption: The media often exposes cases of corruption within the government and helps in bringing these issues to the forefront. This helps in creating pressure on the government to take action and ensure accountability.
Media plays a crucial role in bringing transparency in public life by wide coverage of cases involving corruption, informing the public of government’s activities, and generating awareness among citizens. However, the role of press and media in ensuring accountability of the government is not without limitations. The issues of fake news, paid news, race for television rating points (TRP), among others, plague the ability of the press and media to make the government accountable for its actions.
Public Protests and Demonstrations
Peaceful protests and demonstrations against the actions or inactions of the government have proved as an effective tool of making the government accountable. The role of collective action of the public in ensuring accountability of the government can be seen from following case-
Anna Hajare Led Anti-Corruption Movement 2011One notable example of the role of public protests and demonstrations in ensuring accountability of the government in India is the Anti-Corruption Movement led by Anna Hazare in 2011. The movement was sparked by widespread public anger over corruption in the government, particularly in relation to the allocation of government contracts and licenses. Anna Hazare, a social activist, launched a hunger strike in Delhi, calling for the government to implement a stronger anti-corruption law, known as the Jan Lokpal Bill. The hunger strike quickly attracted widespread public support, with tens of thousands of people participating in protests and demonstrations across the country. The public demonstrations and protests put significant pressure on the government to take action on corruption. As a result of the public pressure, the government was forced to negotiate with Anna Hazare and his supporters, and eventually agreed to implement the Jan Lokpal Bill. This example demonstrates the power of public protests and demonstrations in holding the government accountable in India. By coming together and raising their voices, the citizens were able to bring attention to the issue of corruption and put pressure on the government to take action. The Anti-Corruption Movement is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of citizens speaking out to ensure accountability and transparency in government. |
However, there is a general tendency among protestors to use violent means to address their grievances. Such instances of violence defeats the whole purpose of holding the government accountable for its actions.
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