In 2025, Transparency International released the latest edition of its flagship global ranking — the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). The index assessed 182 countries and territories, measuring perceived levels of public-sector corruption on a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). More than just a ranking exercise, CPI 2025 offers critical insights into…
Introduction Religious diversity is one of the defining features of India. The Constitution guarantees freedom of religion while simultaneously committing the State to equality, dignity, and secular governance. This dual commitment often brings courts into sensitive disputes involving rituals, temple management, and denominational rights. Recent judicial observations—particularly from the Madras High Court—have once again highlighted…
Introduction The rapid expansion of digital technologies has fundamentally transformed how governments function, interact with citizens, and deliver public services. Under the umbrella of e-governance, states across the world have adopted information and communication technologies (ICTs) to improve efficiency, transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in governance. In India, initiatives such as Digital India, online service portals,…
Introduction Economic performance of a nation is not determined merely by natural resources, capital investment, or technological advancement. Increasingly, development economists and governance scholars agree that institutional quality—the effectiveness, integrity, accountability, and responsiveness of public institutions—is a decisive factor in shaping long-term economic growth. Among all institutions, the civil service occupies a central position because…
Introduction The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is widely regarded as one of India’s landmark laws aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and democratic participation. It provides citizens with the legal right to seek information from public authorities, thereby making governance more open and responsive. Central to this framework are the Information Commissions—the Central Information…
Introduction The Indian judiciary plays a vital role in interpreting and upholding the Constitution, ensuring justice, and maintaining the balance of power among the executive, legislature, and judiciary. Over the years, the judiciary has adopted a proactive stance in addressing legal and constitutional matters, which is commonly referred to as Judicial Activism. Judicial activism occurs…
Introduction The Basic Structure Doctrine is one of the most significant principles in Indian constitutional law. It serves as a safeguard against arbitrary amendments to the Constitution by preventing Parliament from altering the fundamental characteristics of the Constitution. This doctrine ensures that the core values, principles, and spirit of the Indian Constitution remain intact, even…
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been one of the most contentious laws in India, often criticized as draconian and unconstitutional by various states and human rights organizations. Originally enacted to curb insurgency and maintain public order, AFSPA grants sweeping powers to the armed forces, including the right to shoot to kill, arrest…
Introduction The Doctrine of Basic Structure is a fundamental principle in Indian constitutional law that ensures the core values and essential features of the Indian Constitution remain intact despite amendments. The doctrine prevents Parliament from altering or destroying the fundamental framework of the Constitution, thereby preserving the democratic and federal nature of India’s governance. This…
Introduction The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the land, laying the foundation for governance and the rights of citizens. At the heart of this monumental document lies its Preamble, a guiding philosophy that encapsulates the essence of Indian democracy. The Preamble is not just an introduction but a declaration of the fundamental…