Democracy means open transparency and public access to how decisions are made. It ensures that people can see government actions, check rules, and hold the executive responsible, whoever he or she may be. Accountability is vital.
Most people know the key parts of transparency in a democracy, but are they being implemented?
Citizens have the right and the means to check how laws and policies are made. However, RTI applications are not properly replied to by some autocratic officers.
Decisions must follow known norms and procedures instead of hidden processes. Budgets, spending and official actions should be open for the public and the press to see. This information should be available online permanently.
Why does it matter? It helps stop corruption. Goa has no corruption, okay? Goa has open records to make it hard for responsible persons to hide wrongdoing or misuse power. Right? If someone knows of such wrongdoing, he should disclose it in court.
People trust the government more when they can see how decisions are made. Voting is the most important factor in a democracy. All citizens can make better choices during every election. Democracy means open transparency and best adjudication.
RAJESH BANAULIKAR, Arpora
