New Delhi, Nov 23 (NationPress) A democratic order stands as the most effective governance model as it fosters transparency, which in turn facilitates accountability. Such accountability is essential for maintaining a corruption-free system that relies on sound decision-making, with transparency enabling the critical examination of the decision-making processes.

The execution of a decision may be hindered by inefficiencies, neglect, or corruption. Here, transparency in processes—including adherence to timelines and regulations—becomes crucial. Moreover, effective supervision at all levels is necessary, as the role of supervisors is often overlooked; transparency is vital for scrutinizing this aspect of organizational operations. Anti-corruption agencies themselves fail to create deterrence if their performance is not subject to external scrutiny.

The establishment of an independent, high-powered monitoring body outside of the political executive became necessary due to the rising belief in a political-bureaucratic nexus, as highlighted by the Vohra Committee report back in 1993. Despite numerous recommendations from various Administrative Reforms Commissions (ARCs) regarding decision-making delegation and establishing inter-disciplinary teams to address cross-cutting issues transparently, implementation has been lacking. Notably, the Modi government has significantly enhanced inter-ministerial coordination prior to submitting matters for cabinet review within a specified timeline.

A fundamental conflict exists between confidentiality and transparency; the former must be exercised according to rules that provide legitimacy. The RTI Act of 2005 addresses this issue, balancing transparency with confidentiality for the benefit of the nation, society, and individuals. The Act states that a public authority may grant access to information if the 'public interest in disclosure outweighs the harm to protected interests.'

The 1967 exemptions from disclosures granted by the Official Secrets Act (OSA) are retained in the RTI Act, particularly concerning matters of national sovereignty, state security, and friendly relations with other nations. The need for maintaining secrecy necessitates 'Security Classification,' which defines the 'Restrictive Security' or 'Need to Know' criteria for accessing sensitive information. Handling secret information requires resilience and mental fortitude; it is not suited for individuals who are gullible, lack self-discipline, or cannot differentiate between authoritative opinions and gossip. This underscores the strategic significance of transparency in the governance of a democratic state.

In today's landscape of proxy wars, a method of undermining a target nation without engaging in overt warfare is to assault its economic stability and assets. Warren Christopher, Secretary of State under Bill Clinton, famously stated in 1993 that 'national security is inseparable from economic security.' The Pakistani ISI targeted Mumbai for the 26/11 attacks due to its status as India's economic capital. Consequently, any enterprise that bolsters the nation's economic strength must have a team of professionally trained individuals to ensure security and manage what is known as 'insider threat management.'

This concept merges the functions of Vigilance and Security, as corrupt employees are more susceptible to enemy manipulation. Both functions should now be integrated with mainstream management since the source of an 'insider threat' could emerge from any segment of the organization, necessitating that Vigilance and Security possess a comprehensive understanding of organizational operations. This validates the principle that Security and Vigilance must derive their authority from top leadership. Their success hinges on the ability of these operatives to persuade senior supervisors to act as the 'eyes and ears' in various organizational segments.

The work of Vigilance and Security commences with identifying members who appear 'vulnerable' to adversarial influences. Vulnerability is often linked to 'notable addictions,' 'greed,' and 'discontent.' Security and vigilance personnel trained in intelligence techniques such as surveillance and covert inquiries can scrutinize such individuals and counsel them against their weaknesses when appropriate.

The growing significance of these roles is reflected in the expanding areas where security executives may be called upon. Background checks, re-verification of the qualifications of those handling sensitive work, and even due diligence tasks might fall under their purview. They may also assist in recruitment interviews, establishing the organization's guidelines, and developing its information security system.

Special emphasis should be placed on this last area, given that a compromised insider could facilitate unauthorized communication with external entities. Most importantly, the vigilance and security framework should act as mentors, organizing formal or informal programs to foster an organizational culture centered on ethics, loyalty, and integrity—values that should drive task execution.

Transparency in governance has surfaced as a significant challenge due to the tendency of political leaders to conceal their failures and their unwillingness to penalize corrupt insiders, alongside the opposition's social media campaigns aimed at undermining the regime through an 'influence war.'

While the universal adult franchise in India epitomizes democracy, the persistence of caste, creed, and regional divisions, compounded by poverty and limited education, has led all parties to resort to undemocratic tactics to secure electoral victories. The Indian electorate has demonstrated its democratic values and maintained its faith in nationalism and peace, even amidst personal economic challenges.

India must particularly lean on its youth and women to assess leaders based on merit. The foreign and domestic policies of the Modi administration, which focus on mutually beneficial bilateral relations without aligning with any global power, the enhancement of infrastructure for the welfare of all Indians, and the promotion of digital connectivity for the economic empowerment of youth, exemplify the strengths of this regime, benefitting the democratic state. A conscientious judiciary, a robust social media presence, and a constructive opposition are hallmarks of a transparent and viable democracy, allowing Indian citizens to take pride in their existence.

(The author is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau)