Power must be exercised responsibly, ensuring accountability, transparency and ethical conduct to prevent corruption and foster trust within society.
Lessons from History
Yudhishthira's Dilemma:
The story of Yudhishthira, a key figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata, offers timeless insights into the dynamics of power and accountability.
In a high-stakes dice game, Yudhishthira lost everything, including his kingdom and wife, Draupadi.
His actions, driven by arrogance and a sense of invincibility, highlight the destructive consequences of unchecked power and lack of responsibility.
Historical Parallels:
In historical contexts, the misuse of power without accountability has led to significant consequences.
During India’s Emergency period (1975-77), Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared an emergency to address political instability, leading to suspended civil liberties, censored press, and imprisoned opposition leaders.
Relationship Between Power and Accountability
Montesquieu’s Theory:
Montesquieu argued that the concentration of power in one branch of government leads to tyranny.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar echoed this sentiment, stressing that a good constitution can only be effective if its implementers are virtuous.
Corruption and Transparency:
Power without accountability often results in corruption, which can undermine societal morals and lead to significant scandals, such as the NEET scam.
Transparency is essential for accountability. JS Mill’s Harm Principle suggests that personal freedom should only be restricted to prevent harm to others.
The Aadhaar project, despite its benefits, faced criticism for lack of transparency.
Accountability in Governance:
Effective governance requires accountability to prevent absolute power. The judiciary’s role, as seen in the Navtej Singh Johar vs Union of India case, underscores the importance of checks and balances.
Accountable governance fosters trust and ensures fair and just policies. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is an example of accountability-driven policy.
Contemporary Issues and Solutions:
Social Impact:
Lack of accountability leads to disenfranchisement, civil unrest, and protests, as seen with Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption movement.
Cultures that enforce accountability tend to have better governance and development outcomes. Movements like MeToo and BlackLivesMatter demonstrate the global call for accountability.
Political Implications:
The absence of accountability erodes democratic institutions, leading to voter apathy and diminished political participation. This was evident during the Emergency period in India.
Religious and Personal Dimensions:
In religious contexts, lack of accountability can lead to violence and unrest, exemplified by the protests following allegations against the spiritual leader of Dera Sacha Sauda.
On a personal level, accountable leaders like Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam inspire trust and respect, while power without accountability often leads to unethical behavior.
Steps to Enhance Accountability
Institutional Strengthening:
Strengthening institutional checks and balances is crucial. The separation of powers among the legislature, judiciary, and executive is vital.
A free press and independent bodies like the Election Commission play key roles in monitoring power.
Legal Reforms:
Enacting and enforcing strict anti-corruption laws can deter misuse of power.
The RTI Act and Whistleblowers Protection Act are examples of legal frameworks promoting accountability.
Public Participation:
Increasing public participation in governance through mechanisms like Gram Sabhas and participatory budgeting enhances accountability.
Initiatives like the Right to Information Act (RTI) empower citizens to demand transparency.
Technological Advancements:
Leveraging technology and digital tools, such as blockchain, can increase transparency and accountability in governance.
Accountability is essential for responsible and ethical governance. As Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of Sarvodaya (welfare of all) emphasizes, those in power must act in the people’s interest and be answerable to them. By strengthening institutions, enacting legal reforms, promoting public participation, and utilizing technology, we can address the adverse effects of power mismanagement and build a more just and equitable society. As ancient wisdom says, "Satyameva jayate nanritam" – truth alone triumphs, not falsehood.
