Bring out arguments surrounding the debate of legalising lobbying in India to promote transparency.
Lobbying is defined as furtherance of a particular political/ economic agenda by directly dealing with political/ bureaucratic officers.
- Lobbying is often accompanied by exchange of monetary transactions often illegally causing corruption.
- Augusta westland case – Alleged corruption in purchase of VVIP helicopters.
- Crony capitalism – Allegations of awarding large scale government contracts to certain companies.
- Various MNCs lobbying for policies conducive to their business interests.
Legalising lobbying:
- Pros –
- Protection of legitimate interests.
- Better lined to ease of doing business.
- Elimination of corruption.
- Alternate view towards policy making.
- Cons –
- Policy dictated by influential groups.
- Detrimental to industries who cannot afford associated costs.
- Elimination of voice of minorities.
- Policies against tenets of welfare state.
Corruption has been a feature of certain political decisions in the past. While legal lobbying can increase transparency, adequate safeguards are needed to ensure voices are not lost.