Accountability in public service signifies the obligation of officials to answer for their actions, decisions, and performance to the public they serve. It entails responsibility, answerability, and transparency in the exercise of authority. This ensures ethical conduct and efficient use of public resources, fostering trust and good governance.

Dimensions of Accountability

Accountability in public service encompasses multiple dimensions, ensuring responsible and ethical conduct. According to Aristotle's virtue ethics, public servants must cultivate virtues like justice and prudence to fulfill their duties effectively.

• Responsibility: Public servants are entrusted with specific duties and responsibilities.
  • Example: The District Collector is responsible for disaster management within their jurisdiction, as exemplified by the efficient handling of the 2023 Cyclone Biparjoy in Gujarat by the state administration.
• Answerability: They are answerable for their actions and decisions to higher authorities and the public.
  • Example: The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audits government spending and reports its findings to the Parliament, holding officials accountable for financial irregularities, as seen in the 2010 Commonwealth Games scam report.
• Transparency: Decision-making processes and information should be accessible to the public.
  • Example: The Right to Information Act, 2005 empowers citizens to access government information, promoting transparency and accountability, as demonstrated by the numerous RTI applications filed annually.

Ensuring Accountability

Several measures can be implemented to ensure both individual and collective accountability within the public service. Kautilya's Arthashastra emphasizes the importance of checks and balances in governance.

• Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Clear laws and regulations define roles, responsibilities, and consequences for misconduct.
  • Example: The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 criminalizes corrupt practices by public servants, deterring bribery and extortion.
• Whistleblower Protection: Mechanisms should be in place to protect individuals who report wrongdoing.
  • Example: The Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 safeguards individuals who expose corruption in government organizations.
• Citizen Participation: Engaging citizens in monitoring and evaluating public services enhances accountability.
  • Example: The MyGov platform facilitates citizen participation in policy discussions and feedback on government initiatives.

Accountability is crucial for upholding ethical standards, promoting good governance, and maintaining public trust in a democratic society. By strengthening institutional mechanisms and fostering a culture of responsibility, India can ensure its public servants remain accountable to the citizens they serve.