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:

1. Pros –
   • Protection of legitimate interests.
   • Better lined to ease of doing business.
   • Elimination of corruption.
   • Alternate view towards policy making.
2. 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.