Topics
250 words
Topic

Administrative Accountability

Administrative accountability refers to the institutional mechanisms and ethical frameworks through which public officials and bureaucratic agencies remain answerable for their decisions, actions, and the effective use of public resources to the legislature, the judiciary, and the citizens.

Why it matters

  • Ensures adherence to the rule of law and prevents the arbitrary exercise of discretionary power by the executive branch.
  • Promotes transparency and public trust by establishing clear channels for grievance redressal and performance evaluation.
  • Acts as a critical check against corruption and inefficiency within the administrative machinery.
  • Facilitates the alignment of bureaucratic output with constitutional mandates and public policy objectives.

How it is asked

Focus on the distinction between internal controls like hierarchical supervision and external controls such as parliamentary committees, the Comptroller and Auditor General, the judiciary, and the Right to Information Act.