The Right to Good Governance

Book excerpt: Good governance is not a fundamental right under the Constitution of India. Did the makers of the Constitution presume that the framework and the institutional structure designed by them would ensure that the people got social, economic, and political justice, liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship, and equality of status and of opportunity? Why is Satyam missing from mainstream Indian activities, although the National motto Satyameva Jayate is ubiquitous as part of the National Symbol, appearing in all national documents, including in currency notes? The perceived charm of the office of the District Officer is a major factor in attracting some of the brightest and most diligent among the Indian youth to the Indian Administrative Service. But should young graduates spend their energy in the prime of their youth on preparation for the Civil Services Examination, the chances of success being statistically low? Should professionally qualified persons attempt to join the Civil Services, with the risk of becoming professionally unfit with the passage of time if they do not succeed? These questions are only incidental. The book discusses key governance issues from an unbiased perspective.