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.

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