Voices of truth: The role of whistleblowing in strengthening governance and accountability in India

Abstract

Whistleblowing is the act of reporting illegal practices or misconducts within an organization and it is important for protecting public interest and ensuring good governance. In India, where corruption and malpractices have been longstanding challenges, whistleblowers have emerged as essential watchdogs. In spite of this, whistleblowers in India face significant risks including harassment, job loss and even physical harm due to inadequate legal protections and lack of proper institutional support. This paper examines the significance of whistleblowing in India, analyzing the legal framework, challenges faced by whistleblowers and the impact of whistleblowing on public sector governance. Through a comprehensive analysis of secondary resources such as existing literature, in-depth case studies and relevant documents this paper aims to create a profound understanding of factors affecting whistleblowing in India. The findings highlight the necessity for stronger legal protections and institutional support for whistleblowers to create a more accountable and transparent environment.