Budget secrecy refers to the practice of keeping government budgetary processes confidential. It often leads to limited public scrutiny. This can hinder transparency and accountability. In some contexts, it may protect sensitive economic information. However, it can also foster corruption and mismanagement. Balancing secrecy and transparency is crucial for effective governance and public trust in financial matters.
The ritualised secrecy surrounding India’s Union Budget—symbolised by the tightly guarded “Budget Bunker” in North Block—sits uneasily with the ideals of a modern, participatory democracy. What is often...
