Corruption is the misuse of one's position and resources for serving self interest. It is like a termite which wrecks the system from within.

Corruption - erodes the fabric of governance → Poor delivery of govt. welfare schemes → Encroaching of rights of poor & marginalised → Playing with safety of people → Against rule of law, justice, fairness Corruption - erodes public's faith in democratic institutions → Creates culture of corruption → People lose trust once democratic inst' → Indifference to public affairs → Reflected in low voter participation.

Trusting Mechanism for tackling corruption Right to Information Act → making right to informed citizenry a legal right fundamental right under Art 19(1)a Provide getting information about government spending transparency and accountability. Whistleblower protection Act → Provide protection to whistleblowers Encourage national-minded aware citizens & come forward → Creates confidence in democracy & true of law Lokpal and Lokayukta Act 2013 → Is legal framework to providing ombudsman Can investigate corruption cases against Prime minister & other ministers Direct the vigilance administration of departments.

Ensure a holistic framework to address corruption → RTI → get information, whistleblower act protection when use that information to expose corrupt → Lokpal act → home to lokpal & investigate the case based on the information and also provide protection to whistleblower identity. → Strengthen the fight against corruption acutely → Provide an effective deterrent and punishment for corruption Challenge: Delay in appointment of lokpal Complaint not accepted without revealing identity Poor enforcement of whistleblowing protection Act Official Secrets Act → dilute RTI but if these three laws are combined, exist a strong fight against corruption

— Nidhi Goyal · AIR 91