Dynamics of Indian Democracy

Description

This book examines the role of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) within the landscape of Indian democracy and governance. It investigates the persistent challenge of corruption in India and analyzes the institutional measures established to combat it, focusing primarily on the CBI. The central argument is that excessive political interference has severely compromised the CBI’s operational impartiality, investigative capability, and public credibility. The text explores how successive ruling parties have utilized the agency as an instrument of partisan politics, targeting political opponents and subverting the democratic process. It highlights how political executive control over leadership appointments and high-profile investigations—such as the Bofors, 2G, and coal scams—has hindered the agency's autonomy. Furthermore, the study discusses the misuse of the CBI against critics and human rights activists. Finally, it concludes by recommending essential policy measures aimed at depoliticizing the institution, thereby restoring its structural independence and effectiveness in the ongoing fight against corruption.