Media can be used to spread contract details

Media can be used to spread contract details
The Agenda for Bengaluru Infrastructure and Development Task Force (ABIDe) has proposed to make it mandatory for all civic agencies related to the City affairs to disclose details of contracts awarded on notice boards at their respective offices. ABIDe says this would go a long way in ensuring transparency in the working of civic agencies. Justice MF Saldanha, chairman of the Karnataka chapter of Transparency International, however, feels that such steps will not be enough in ending corruption in civic affairs. Bosky Khanna spoke to Justice Saldanha on the issue.

What do you have to say about the proposal to notify contract details?
I don't think this is a good idea at all. How long can the government and civic agencies go on putting up boards? Transparency should be maintained at every level and it's not feasible to put up every contract detail on the boards. Also there are a number of questions that need to be addressed — who will take the responsibility to ensure whether the information displayed is authentic? Rather, they should use the media for disseminating information. A small write-up or an advertisement every month is ideal.

Do you agree that transparency in government activities will ensure accountability?
Ensuring transparency in the workings of the government and civic agencies is a good idea. Tax-payers have the right to know where their money is being utilised and for what. Since the development works are undertaken for public benefit, people should be encouraged to give their feedback on projects. But accountability will come when people get to know what is happening around them. People must be aware of how a contract is awarded— why and to whom.

How can citizens ensure that transparency is maintained?
Around 95% of the people are not aware of what is happening and why. Only a small section of the population is willing to get involved and make a difference. People can ensure transparency when they take the initiative and care to know what is happening and why. Instead of pointing fingers in the last minute like in the case of BIA, they should question and demand explanations at the conceptual stage itself.

How can people invoke the right to information in these issues?
Every citizen must be aware of his rights. They should question as to why a contract has been awarded to a particular contractor everytime. People must compare and then question the authorities with examples through the media. They should use the right to information extensively and effectively.

What will be your role in the whole thing?
We, as an institution, are ready to help and assist the government and civic agencies in every manner. But they are not ready to take our help. I think, there are many rackets involved in the infrastructure projects and in the process of awarding contracts.