The recent developments in Rajasthan have brought the idea of Social Accountability to the forefront of state politics. A state-wide campaign has been launched calling for the passage of a Social Accountability law during the next legislative assembly session. This legislation would prescribe principles and mechanisms aimed at improving the effectiveness of public services and increasing the public’s ability to hold government officials accountable.
Rajasthan’s Move towards Social Accountability
In 2019, a committee under the chairmanship of the former state election commission, Ram Lubhaya, was appointed to advise the government on crafting the Social Accountability Bill. The draft was completed and submitted by the committee in 2020. Prior to this, laws such as the Rajasthan Guaranteed Delivery of Public Service Act, 2011 and The Rajasthan Right to Hearing Act (2012) existed but were repealed due to major issues.
Understanding Social Accountability
Social Accountability is essentially an approach that leverages civic engagement to enhance accountability. It allows ordinary citizens and citizen groups to participate directly or indirectly in enforcing accountability. In a public sector context, a variety of actions and mechanisms can be utilized by citizens, communities, independent media and civil society organizations to keep public officials in check. To enhance the efficiency and sustainability of these mechanisms, institutionalization is necessary. Involvement from the state is also crucial to provide internal mechanisms and facilitate civic engagement and citizen voice.
Components and Principles of Social Accountability
Key practices within Social Accountability involve the collection, analysis and dissemination of information, mobilization of public support, advocacy and negotiation for change. Furthermore, social audit tools are integral for maintaining transparency. The pivotal principles of Social Accountability include Jankari (information), Bhagidari (citizen involvement), Karyawahi (time-bound action), Suraksha (protection of citizens), Sunwai (the right to be heard), Janta Ka Manch (collective platform) and Prasar (report dissemination).
The Need for Social Accountability
There exist countless citizens who face difficulty in accessing their rights and timely redressal of their complaints due to the lack of accountable government officials. The implementation of Social Accountability would significantly improve the situation.
Significance and Impact of Social Accountability
Social Accountability empowers every person to hold government institutions and officials accountable, thereby reinforcing their rights as citizens. It raises awareness about the law and advocates for the passage of the Bill in the upcoming legislative session. The redressal mechanism that commences from village panchayats and includes public hearings at the block level can contribute towards improved governance, better service delivery, and increased citizen empowerment.
Social Accountability Practices in India
Examples of Social Accountability are prevalent in various Indian states. Participatory Planning and Policy Formulation have been implemented in Kerala, Participatory Budget Analysis in Gujarat, Participatory Expenditure Tracking System in Delhi and Rajasthan, Citizens’ Surveys/Citizen Report Cards in Bangalore and Maharashtra, Citizen Charters in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, as well as Community Scorecards in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.