Despite the role of NGOs in nation’s developmental ethos, it is the constitutional duty of the state to curb the activities of such NGOs which attempts to hamper national development. Discuss.

NGOs or non-governmental organizations are formally registered organisations aiming to render social service.

NGOs are integral part of nation’s developmental ethos as:

• They act as a bridge between people and government.
• NGOs raise the voice of deprived sections.
• They fill the gap between government’s capability and people’s demand.
• NGOs work for a special cause, which usually remains neglected. E.g. CRY foundation for child rights.
• They also aid government efforts in certain areas. E.g. Goonj NGO for disaster management.

But NGOs sometimes get involved in activities which hamper development:

• Heaven for black money.
• Lack of transparency in funding.
• Involved in corrupt practices.
• Practically defunct on ground.
• Foreign funding which remains a threat of corruption.
• Absence of proper modus operandi, misuse of government funding.

To curb these activities, government has duty and authority to check on NGOs that are involved in unacceptable activities:

• Foreign funded NGO which aimed to bring social unrest, anti-state sentiments (FCRA, FEMA).
• Regulation of registration and functioning, e.g. Darpan portal.
• Banning the NGOs which are seen to be involved in such activities.
• Regulate transparency in domestic funding.

This is in line with the government’s interest to ensure national interest, security, authority as democratic government and constitutional duty to maintain sovereignty, unity-integrity and welfare of the nation.

Topics: GS-II: Pressure Groups and Formal Informal Associations