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Centre for Transparency and Accountability in Governance

Centre for Transparency and Accountability in Governance, National Law University Delhi has been constituted to uphold the commitment of the rule of law and good governance. The Centre emphases on sensitizing people on transparency and accountability in governance; empowering people such as students, lawyers, and public officials to contribute effectively to ensure transparency and accountability in governance; and creating and promoting quality research in the area of transparency and accountability in governance. The Centre also provides, free of cost, for training, sensitization and consultative services on RTI to people. The Centre has organised national and International Conferences on good governance issues.

The Centre also provides for free of cost consultative services, training, sensitization and promotion, on Right to Information, Labour and Industrial Laws governance and other governance related issues.

The CTAG has organised some International Conferences on various dimensions of Corruption and governance, in 2012-17 national workshop on freedom of Information/RTI, 2013 & 2016 and other events. The Centre regularly publishes “International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance” covering contemporary challenges arising out of abuse of public resources and quality of governance.

The CTAG has also entered into formal MOUs with the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI), India, the Association for Democratic Reforms, (ADR) New Delhi, and National Campaign for People’s Right to Information (NCPRI), New Delhi for the promotion of transparency and accountability in governance. The CTAG and Transparency International India (TII) have also been collaborating for the advancement of transparency in the operations of the state since Jan 2012.

CTAG while upholding commitment to the rule of law , to raise awareness on transparency and accountability in governance; to empower students, lawyers, citizens and public officials, to contribute effectively to ensure transparency and accountability in governance and to create and promote quality research in the area of transparency and accountability in governance. CTAG is engaged in the following activities establishing the fundamental objective of the centre:

  • Providing consultative services to people, NGO, civil societies on the Right to Information Act, 2005 and other issues related to good governance.
  • Conducting sensitization programmes on issues pertaining to good governance: street play, skit, awareness camps etc.
  • Organizing seminar/conference, workshop, debate/discussion, quiz etc on good governance issues.
  • Publication of journals, magazine, newsletter etc on good governance issues.
  • Designing of Course curriculum for, Certificate, Diploma, PG and UG on good governance.
  • Orientation/Training of Public Information Officers, First Appellate Authorities, and Information Commissioners under the RTI Act, 2005, faculty members, civil societies, NGOs etc. on good governance.
  • Conducting quality research on issues of good governance.
  • Collaborating with NGOs, Civil Societies, Public Authorities for conducting research and undertaking projects regarding good governance.
  • Filing suit/petition/application/appeal before the Supreme Court, High Courts and other Courts & Tribunals for the promotion of issues related to transparency and accountability in governance of public and private institutions.
  • Any other assignment related to transparency and accountability in governance.

International Programs: Lectures

  • Delivered lecture on RTI to the Parliamentarians from Kenya from 10:30-12pm 3:45pm on 23 June 2017 at BPST, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi
  • Delivered lecture on RTI to the officers the State Legislature from Afghanistan from 2.15pm-3.45pm on 07 Dec 2016 at BPST, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi
  • Delivered a spl lecture on ‘RTI’ in the International Training Programme organised by the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, at 2:15pm on 23 Feb 2017.
  • Delivered lecture on RTI to the officers the State Legislature from Afghanistan from 2:15pm-3:45pm on 07 Dec 2016 at BPST, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi
  • Delivered lectures on ‘RTI’ in the International Training Programme organised by the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, at 2.15pm on 22 Nov 2016.
  • Delivered a Spl. lecture on RTI during International programme on training on legislative reforms for foreign nationals at the BPST, Parliament House Complex, New Delhi on 27 Feb 2016 from 11:45am-1:15pm.
  • On Right to Information on 23 Nov 2015 from 2:15pm-3:45pm at the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, to 54 Foreign Delegates from 20 Countries.
  • On Right to Information on 01 December 2014 from 2:30pm-4pm at the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, to 47 Foreign Delegates from 28 Countries.
  • On Right to Information on 26th Feb 2016 from 11:30am-1:15pm at the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, to 47 Foreign Delegates from 25 Countries.

National Programs : Lectures

  • Delivered lecture on RTI to the IRS Probationers from Ministry of Finance from 10:30am-12pm on 24 March 2017 at BPST, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi
  • Delivered lectures on ‘RTI’ in the National Training Programme organised by the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, from 3pm-4:30pm on 10 March 2017.
  • Delivered lecture on RTI to Labour Commissioners from 2pm-5pm at VV Giri National Labour Institute on 07 Nov 2016.
  • Induction programme at the NATRSS two lectures
  • Delivered lectures on How to do quality research and human rights of teachers at the ASC, BPS Women University on 25 July 2016 from 2pm-4:15pm
  • Delivered a lecture on Social Security & Employees Compensation Law in India for NGOs, officers of Trade Unions etc from the North-East States on 29 March 2016 from 2pm-3:30pm at VVG NLI during an Labour Commissioner Induction programme
  • Delivered a lecture on Employees Provident Funds Scheme for NGOs, officers of Trade Unions etc from the North-East States on 29 March 2016 from 3:45pm-5:15pm at VVG NLI during an Labour Commissioner Induction programme
  • Access to Information Law in India on 22 Sept 2015 from 2pm-5pm at VVG NLI during an Labour Commissioner Induction programme
  • Delivered lecture at the GNLU to the Officers of JAG Army, Navy and Air Force on Constitutional Paradigms of Fundamental Rights of Defence Forces from 09:30-10:45 hrs on 27 July 2015
  • Delivered lecture at the GNLU to the Officers of JAG, Army, Navy and Air Force on Due Process during Conducting, Domestic Inquiry, Court Marital and Armed Forces Tribunal from 11:15am-1pm hrs on 27 July 2015
  • Delivered lecture at the GNLU to the Officers of JAG, Army, Navy and Air Force on Judicial Review of Actions of Court Martial and Armed Forces Tribunal from 09:30-10:45 hrs on 28 July 2015
  • Delivered lecture at the GNLU to the Officers of JAG, Army, Navy and Air Force on Freedom of Information and Armed Forces from 1115-1pm hrs on 28 July 2015
  • Delivered lecture at the VV Giri NLI to Newly appointed Labour Inspectors and Central Labour Officers of Ministry of Labour and Employment, on Right to Information from 2pm-5pm on 28 June 2015
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the UGC Academic Staff College, Khanpur, Haryana during the UGC Orientation Programme Course on “conducting quality research in social sciences” of teachers on 6 June 2015 from 3:30pm-4:30pm.
  • On Employees Provident Funds Act, 1952 from 3:45pm-5:15pm on 30 April 2015 at VVGiri, National Labour Institute, Noida, Central Government Asstt. Labour Commissioners/Officers
  • On Employees State Insurance Act, 1948 from 2pm-3:30pm 30 April 2015 at VVGiri, National Labour Institute, Noida, Central Government Asstt. Labour Commissioners/Officers
  • NLU on 24 April from 2pm-3:30pm on Social security Schemes in India to Officers of Indian Revenue Services
  • Delivered a special lecture to the probationer officers of Defence Estate Organisation on Separation of Powers and Governance on 9 March from 2:45pm to 5pm, organised by NLU Delhi.
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the Capacity Development Programme for Teachers in Administrative Law and Governance (15-21 Dec 2014) on “Administrative Law and administrative actions” on 16 December 2014 from 10:00am-11:30am.
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the Capacity Development Programme for Teachers in Administrative Law and Governance (15-21 Dec 2014) on “Delegated Legislation” on 17 December 2014 from 2:30pm-4:45pm.
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the UGC Academic Staff College, Indore, M P during the UGC Refresher Course on “RTI endeavours in India and abroad” of teachers on 6 December 2014 from 2:30-4pm.
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the UGC Academic Staff College, Indore, M P during the UGC Refresher Course on “How to conduct quality research on human rights” of teachers on 6 December 2014 from 4:15-5:45pm.
  • On Right to Information on 17 Oct 2014 from 12pm-1:45pm at the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha Secretariat, to officers of State Legislative Departments
  • Delivered lecture on the Consumer Protections Law in India to the Probationers PF Commissioners from 2pm to 5pm on August 2014 at NATRSS, Ministry of Labour, Government of India.
  • Delivered a speech on Impact of corruption on the quality of education and research in India on 05 Oct 2014 from 11:15-11:30 during a four days’ workshop on Fight Against Corruption at RGNUL, Patiala Punjab,
  • Delivered lecture on the Consumer Protections Law in India to the Probationers PF Commissioners from 1000 am to 12:15 pm on 9 July 2014 at NATRSS, Ministry of Labour, Government of India.
  • Delivered a special lecture on the RTI Act, 2005 to the Officers of the Oil India Ltd, Government of India, on 7 July 11:15-13:15 at VVGNLI, Noida UP
  • Delivered lecture on Fundamentals of Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 to the Officers and members of trade unions at the Oil India Ltd (PSU) from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm on 24 June 2014 at Oil India Ltd, Duliajan, Dibrugrah, Assam, organised by the VV Giri National Labour Institute Noida.
  • Delivered lecture on Domestic Inquiry and Principles of Natural Justice from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm on 11 June 2014 at NATRSS Ministry of Labour, Government of India.
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the UGC Academic Staff College, BPS Mahila University, Khanpur Kalan, Hayana, during the UGC Orientation Course on the employment rights of teachers on 7 June 2014 from 2pm to 4pm.
  • Delivered a Special lecture at the UGC Academic Staff College, BPS Mahila University, Khanpur Kalan, Hayana, during the UGC Orientation Course on the Rights under the RTI on 7 June 2014 from 11:45am to 1:15 pm.
  • Delivered a special lecture on RTI from 2:15-5pm on 24 April 2014 for the Labour Officers of the North-East States in a training programme organised by the VV Giri National Labour Institute Noida.
  • Delivered lecture on the case law related to the EPF&MP Act, 19:52 from 15:45pm to 5:15pm on 6 December, 2013 at NATRSS Ministry of Labour, Government of India.
  • Delivered lecture on practice procedure and standards of proof in quasi-judicial proceedings: legal and constitutional perspective to Provident Fund commissioners on from 10:00am to 13:00pm on 9 October, 2013 at NATRSS Ministry of Labour, Government of India.
  • Delivered Special Lecture on Social Security Protections to Workers in Service Sector at V.V.Giri National Labour Institute on 25 Sept 2013 from 2pm to 5pm
  • Delivered Lecture at IIPA, New Delhi on Judicial Review on 11 September 2013 from 11:30-1pm to the officers of vigilance Dept of local bodies
  • At NLU Ranchi on Labour Law I from 15 July to 19 July 2013 two lectures per day.
  • UGC Academic Staff College, University of Indore, two lectures on RTI on 7 March 2013 from 2:30pm to 5:30pm during UGC Refresher Course.
  • UGC Academic Staff College, University of Indore, two lectures on human rights of teachers on 8 March 2013 from 10:30am to 13:30pm UGC Refresher Course.
  • Delivered Special lecture to senior officers of Central and state legislative departments on Delegated Legislation during training Programme in Legislative Drafting on 16 Jan 2013 from 12:15pm-2pm at BPST, Parliament to India.
  • Special Lectures to Labour Officers of state of Haryana on social security and industrial relations from Sept 21 2012 from 2:30pm-5pm at the Haryana Institute of Personnel Administration, Gurgaon, Government of Haryana.
  • Delivered special lectures on the Contract Act, sale of goods and Negotiable instruments, to the officers of the PEC Ltd, Ministry of Trade and Commerce during 21-25 June 2010 organised by the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade New Delhi.
  • Delivered Special Lecture on Indian Legal System to Foreign Students at the NLU Delhi, in August 2010.

Invitation as Speaker/Chairperson in Conferences/Workshops/Programs

  • Invited as Co-Chair in one technical session during a national seminar on electoral reforms organised by the Faculty of Law, Jamia University, Delhi on 28 Jan 2017.
  • Invited as a speaker in panel discussion on funding of political parties organised by the ADR, New Delhi on 24 Jan 2017.
  • One of the panellists for Discussion on Transnational Corruption on 26th Nov, 2016 organised by the Transparency International India and CTAG, NLU Delhi.
  • Lecture on RTI to Govt. officers of State Legislative Departments on 18 Oct 2016 at BPST, Govt of India.
  • On 17 Oct, 2016 Combating corruption one day workshop delivered a speech on Corruption control in India.
  • Chaired one technical session in a National Seminar on Access to Justice on 14 Oct 2016 at Amity Law School.
  • Two lectures on 07-9 Oct 2016 on RTI and Corruption Control to ACB officers of State of Kerala and others at Trivandrum, IBA CLE NLS Bangalore.
  • Invited a panellist during one day training program cum workshop on RTI organised by the NUJS on 27 Sept 2016.
  • Invited to deliver lectures on various issues related to the functioning of RTI Lectures to Senior Officers, Panchayat members, teachers etc. of Govt Haryana Distt. Rohtak on 27th May 2016 from 10am-3:30pm.
  • One day Conference on “Strengthening Public Grievance System and Role of Civil Society” By Transparency International India at India International Centre New Delhi, Delivered a Speech on Public Grievance Mechanism for RWA on 25 Jun 2013.
  • Invited by the National Campaign on Protection of Right to Information (NGO) for the discussion on framing of draft rules on the whistle blowers protection on 05 July, 2014 form 10:30am-4:30pm.
  • Invited to deliver a special speech on the Employees Compensation Act, 1923 on 15 July 2014, in the National workshop on determination of compensation for clinical trial victims.
  • Invited by the Haryana Institute of the Public Administration to deliver special lectures on the Right to Information from 10-30am to 3:15pm on 17 July 2014 at Rohtak Haryana in a two days’ workshop on Right To Information Act, 2005.
  • Invited to deliver special lectures on RTI Scheme in Haryana during State workshop on RTI for PIOs, and other Govt officials of Haryana Government, at Jhajjar District, on 29 Oct 2013 from 10:30-2pm.
  • Delivered a special lecture on RTI on from 11am-2:30pm on 25 Feb 2014 for Government Officers, Members of Panchayat, and general public, organised by the HIPA, Government of Haryana, at Panipat, Haryana.
  • Chairperson during a National Conference on Human Rights at Institute of Law, Kurukshetra University, Haryana on 18 November 2014.
  • Chairperson during a National Conference on RTI organised by the HIPA and Faculty of Law, BPS University Khanpur Sonepat, Haryana on 20 November 2014.
  • Delivered a speech on RTI and Corruption Control on 22 March 2015 during National Colloquium on combating Corruption and promoting good governance organised by the National Centre for Good Governance, Dopt and IBA-CLE Chair, NLSIU.
  • Delivered a speech on RTI and Corruption Control on 22 March 2015 during National Colloquium on combating Corruption and promoting good governance organised by the National Centre for Good Governance, Dopt and IBA-CLE Chair, NLSIU.
  • National Colloquium on Human rights and Human Dignity on 25 April 2015 Co-Chairperson in one Technical session organised by the Mody University, Faculty of Law, Sikar.
  • On RTI and enforcement during Workshop on RTI organised by the HIPA, Govt of Haryana from 12:00-13:45 on 28 April 2015 to Public servants of Government of Haryana in Distt, Panipat and Karnal.
  • RTI Lectures to Senior Officers of Govt Haryana Distt. Rohtak on 29 Set 2015 from 10-1:30PM.
  • RTI Lectures to Senior Officers of Govt Haryana Distt Rohtak on 29 Set 2015 from 2pm-3:30pm.
  • Invited as speaker on “Access to Information” in a week programme for Middle Level Officer of Lok Sabha, from 2:s30-4pm on 27 Oct 2015 by the BPST, Lok Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi.
  • Invited as speaker on “Adjudication of Industrial Disputes in India” in a two day National Workshop on Managing Contract Labour System for Professionals, from 230-330pm on 29 Oct 2015 by the All India Management Association, Lodhi Road, New Delhi.
  • Resource person in a specific technical session on medical negligence and liability of legal practitioners’ during two days national Conference on Consumer Protection Law organised by NLU Delhi on 19-20 Feb 2016.
  • Resource person in a specific technical session on Legal Education and Social Justice during two days national colloquium on Legal Education organised by School of Law and Governance, Mody University, Sikar Rajasthan from 27-28 Feb 2016.

Organised Conference/Seminar/training programme

  • International Conference: International conference on transparency and accountability in governance: issues and challenges on 13-14 Oct, 2012 at NLU Delhi
  • National Conference: Member Of Organizing Committee Of National level seminar organized by the Faculty of Law National Law University Jodhpur on 21 Feb 2009
  • National Workshop on freedom of information: challenges and solutions, on 6 April 2013 at NLU Delhi
  • Debate on “Political Parties under RTI on 24 August, 2013
  • Organised International Conference on Corruption in Governance from 15 Nov to 16 November 2013 at NLU Delhi
  • Organised a capacity development programme for teachers in administrative law and governance from 15 Dec to 21 Dec 2014 at NLU Delhi.
  • International Conference: International conference on Transnational Corruption: challenges and solutions, 14-15 March 2015 at NLU Delhi
  • International Work shop on Empirical Research from 16 22 Nov 2015 at the NLU Delhi.
  • Organised a capacity development programme for teachers in Labour and Industrial laws and governance from 30 Nov to 06 Dec 2015 at NLU Delhi.
  • International Seminar on Freedom of Information: challenges and solutions, 19 March 2016 at NLU Delhi
  • organised an International Conference on Transparency and Accountability in Justice Administration System: 24-25 Sept 2016
  • Discussion on Transnational Corruption on 26 Oct 2016 with the support of Transparency International India.
  • Debate Competition on Combating Corruption on 05 Nov 2016 with the collaboration with the ONGC, Govt of India
  • Orientation program on Advanced Labour Law scheduled to be organised in the Month of 12-18 Dec 2016
  • Organized one-day program on deliberation on the Role of Law in promotion of Business ethics” on 30 March 2017 in collaboration with the CII- ITC Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Development, New Delhi
  • Deliberation on Labour Code on Social Security and Labour Welfare on 30 May 2017 in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Employment and VV Giri NLI Noida.

PUBLISHED RESEARCH PAPERS

International Publication

  • Revitalizing The Faith Of People In Free Legal Aid Services Provided By The Empanelled Legal Practitioners’: Challenges And Solutions, published in International Journal International Journal of Law and policy Review [IJLPR] Vol. 1 2012 No. 2 NUJS Kolkata India, ISSN No (O) 2278-3156 2 July 2012
  • Editorial: Imperatives of ensuring accountability of elected representatives of people: International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, May 2015, ISSN NO: 2395-4337
  • Paper titled Ethical Standards in Eradication/Controlling Corruption in Governance: A Critique” published in e-journal: 2e-IJLPR (2015) International Journal International Journal of Law and policy Review NUJS Kolkata India, ISSN No (O) 2278-3156 Vol.4 No.2 July 2015, Page no 313-330

Recognition from National publication/Institutions Research Paper titled “Challenges Of Information Technology In Promoting Legal Education And Research: A Critical Analysis” has been published in Sept 2012by The Editor, University News Association of Indian Universities AIU House, 16 Comrade Inderjit Gupta Marg (Kotla Marg), New Delhi- 110002

JOURNALS (OFF LINE): NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS

  1. Research paper titled “Access to quality legal aid services provided by the LACs in Delhi: A Critical scrutiny published by the Journal of Law and Public Policy ISSN-2350-1200, Vol-III, 2016, published by NLSUI, Bangalore
  2. Research Paper titled “Impact of Corruption on the Quality of Education and Research in India: A critique” has been published in August 25-31, Vol No 52 No 34, 2014 in the University News Association of Indian Universities AIU House, 16 Comrade Inderjit Gupta Marg (Kotla Marg), New Delhi- 110002 ISSN-0556-2257
  3. The Right To Information Endeavour From Secrecy To Transparency And Accountability has been published in NALSAR Review Vol 6 Number 1,2011 published by the NALSAR Hyderabad
  4. Research paper titled “Strengthening the Mission of Right to Information in India” has been published in June 14, 2011 edition of the Supreme Court Cases. Referred Journal on Law
  5. Research paper titled Government Hospitals And The Consumer Protection Act, 1986, Published in Indian Bar Review Vol XXXVIII (3) 2011 July- Sept 2011
  6. Research Paper titled “Liability Of The Legal Practitioners’ For Professional Negligence: A Critical Analysis” was published by the Journal of the Indian Law Institute of India, New Delhi in July-September 2009, vol 51 No. 3 ISSN NO-019-5731
  7. The Right to Recall of People’s Representative and the World’s largest Democracy” has been published in May 2009, by the Lawz , New Delhi
  8. The Fight for the Right to Information: Eliminating corruption in India: November 2007 Lawz, New Delhi
  9. Free Legal Aid: Poor men’s help at home: August 2006, Lawz, New Delhi
  10. The Lok Adalat System – The Instant Justice: 11 September, 2006, Tax Company Business Advisor published by The TAX Publishers, Chopasani Road Jodhpur Rajasthan,

RESEARCH PAPERS IN ONLINE JOURNALS

  1. Research paper titled “Empowering Voters to Recall People’s Elected Representatives for Non-Performance” published by the All India Reporter, Rating: 3.17, available at http://airwebworld.com/articles/index.php?article=1011
  2. Research paper titled “The Right to Information Endeavour from Secrecy to Transparency and Accountability” (2011) 6(1) NALSAR Law Review 108 available at the http://www.commonlii.org/in/journals/NALSARLawRw/2011/8.html
  3. Research paper titled ” Challenges of Information Technology in Promoting Legal Education and Research: A Critical Analysis. The said article is available at the http://www.commonlii.org/in/journals/NLUDLRS/2012/61.pdf

PUBLICATION OF RESEARCH ARTICLE IN BOOK

  1. Research paper titled “Restoring the confidence of the people in free legal aid services in India” has been published in the book titled ‘Legal aid catalyst for social change’ by Satyam Law International New Delhi, Apr, 2012; Page No: 190-203 ISBN: 987-81-921204-2-3
  2. Paper titled “role of ethics in elimination of corruption from public life: a critical appraisal Book on transparency and accountability in governance: issues and challenges, Oct, 2012, NLU Delhi Press, ISBN No. 978-81-923638-7-5
  3. Presented research paper titled “Empowering Freedom of Information Endeavour To Ensure Transparency and Accountability In Governance of Public Authority in Book on international conference on transparency and accountability in governance: issues and challenges Oct, 2012, NLU Delhi Press, ISBN No. 978-81-923638-7-5.
  4. Paper titled “RTI Empowerment” in Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi
  5. Paper titled “Impact analysis of terms and conditions of employment on quality of legal research and education published in the spl book titled “.Legal Education in India: essay in the honour of Professor Ranbir Singh ”published by the Universal Publication New Delhi,2014 ISBN 978-93-5035-401-8
  6. Research paper titled “ A critical analysis of right to quality legal aid services provided by the LACs” have been published in the Conference Book Proceedings ISBN-978-93-5254-3 published by the Dept. of Law, Kerala University, Trivandrum
  7. Article titled Comparative scrutiny of access to information in the SAARC Countries; published in the Edited Book on Comparative RTI Laws in the SAARC Nations with the ISBN-978-93-84272-11-1 , CTAG NLU Delhi, 2017.

Special workshop for Drafting Course curriculum

Attended and actively participated and drafted a course curriculum on “transparency and Accountability in Governance” for the students of LLB, in a four days’ workshop on Fight Against Corruption organised by the IBA-CLE Chair NLSUI Bangalore from 02 Oct to 05 October, 2014 at the RGNUL, Patiala, Punjab.

PREAMBLE

While upholding our commitment to the rule of law,

To raise awareness on transparency and accountability in governance;

To empower students, lawyers, citizens and public officials to contribute effectively to ensure transparency and accountability in governance;

To create and promote quality research in the area of transparency and accountability in governance;

  1. INTERPRETATION

    “Advisory Board” means Committee referred to in clause 4 of this constitution.

    “Executive Council” means the governing body of the Centre referred to in clause 5 of this Constitution.

    “Governing Council” means the body comprising of the Executive Council and the Chairman as its Head.

    “Centre” means the Centre for Transparency and Accountability in Governance.

    “University” means National Law University Delhi as constituted under the National Law University Act, 2007 (Delhi Act No. 1 of 2008).

    “Vice-Chancellor” means the Vice-Chancellor of National Law University Delhi as appointed in accordance with the National Law University Act, 2007 (Delhi Act No. 1 of 2008).

    “Director” means the person appointed pursuant to clause 5 of this Constitution.

    “General Body” means the body of members pursuant to clause 7 of this Constitution.

    “Affiliated Organization” means and includes an organization, institute, research centre or program with significant focus on the fields or broad areas of research similar to or beneficial for the objectives and operations of the Centre. The affiliation will be provided by the Chairman in consultation with the Director through an instrument such as Memorandum of Understanding.

  2. STATEMENTS OF AIMS

    The aims of the Centre are:

    1. To provide consultative services to people, NGO, civil societies on the Right to Information Act, 2005 and other issues related to good governance.
    2. To conduct sensitization programmes on issues pertaining to good governance: street play, skit, awareness camps etc.
    3. To organise seminar/conference, workshop, debate/discussion, quiz etc on good governance issues.
    4. Publication of journals, magazine, newsletter etc on good governance issues.
    5. Designing of Course curriculum for, Certificate, Diploma, PG and UG on good governance
    6. Orientation/Training of Public Information Officers, First Appellate Authorities, and Information Commissioners under the RTI Act, 2005, faculty members, civil societies, NGOs etc. on good governance.
    7. To stimulate and conduct quality research on issues of good governance.
    8. To liaise with NGOs, Civil Societies, Public Authorities for conducting research and undertaking projects regarding good governance.
    9. To file suit/petition/application/appeal before the Supreme Court, High Courts and other Courts & Tribunals for the promotion of issues related to transparency and accountability in governance of public and private institutions.
    10. Any other assignment related to transparency and accountability in governance.
  3. STRUCTURE OF THE CENTRE
    1. The Vice-Chancellor shall be the Chairman of the Centre.
    2. There shall be a Director of the Centre.
    3. There shall be an Executive Council comprising of the Director and Executive Committee.
  4. ADVISORY BOARD
    1. The Advisory Board will assist the Executive Council by:
      1. advising on policy and strategy to meet the objectives of the Centre;
      2. advising, and assisting in reporting, on the management of Centre resources;
      3. identifying potential new sources of funding for the Centre;
    2. The Advisory Board will conduct its own proceedings.
    3. Membership of the Advisory Board will be as follows.
      1. There Board shall comprise of not less than 10 members.
      2. A person having good experience in transparency and actuality in governance shall be appointed as a member.
      3. Members of the Advisory Board shall be nominated by the Chairman in consultation with the Director
      4. Each such nomination as in sub clause 4.3 (2) above may be subject to annual renewal.
  5. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
    1. There shall be an Executive Council comprising of the Director and the Executive Committee for the management of various committees of the Centre.
    2. The Director will be the Chairperson of the Executive Council and will be accountable to the Chairman.
    3. The Director shall be appointed by the Chairman. The Chairman, while appointing Director, shall take into consideration the specialization of faculty member and objectives of the Centre. A Full time faculty member shall only be appointed as Director.

      Provided that, in no case shall the post of Director of the Center lay vacant for a period exceeding 60 days.

    4. The Director, in case of contingency, may delegate any power, function or authority pertaining to the operation of the Centre to an appropriately qualified person or committee.
    5. The Executive Council shall be responsible for the overall financial and academic administration of the Centre and for the day to day activities of the Center in accordance with the legislation, policies and procedures of the University and the academic and research objectives of the University.
    6. The Executive Council must submit an annual report to Chairman on the operations of the Centre for the previous calendar year. The annual report must be submitted each year by the last week of February and will include a financial statement of funds received and expended.
  6. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
    1. There shall be an Executive Committee of the Centre.
    2. The members of the Executive Committee of the Centre shall be selected by the Director and a special committee constituted by Director.
    3. Each committee shall have not more than 10 members
    4. The Executive Committee will assist the Director in: (1) managing the day to day functioning and administration of the Centre;
      (2) administering the funds available to the Centre;
      (3) preparing the annual report of the Centre and other relevant reports;
      (4) achieving the objectives of the Center.
  7. GENERAL BODY:
    There shall be a General Body of members. The General body shall comprise of general members and selected members of the committees of the Centre.
  8. MEMBERSHIP
    Any person, by subscribing to the constitution of the Centre, can apply in writing to the Executive Committee to become part of the General Body. The Executive Council will decide on the application.

    Provided that the Executive Council must give reasons in writing in case it decides to reject any application.

  9. COMMITTEES FOR THE CENTRE:
    1. There shall be four committees for the smooth functioning of the Centre, namely: Outreach Committee, Internal Affairs Committee, Research Committee and Publication Committee.
    2. The Executive Council shall select members of various committees. Experiences and other capabilities related to the functions and representation from the applicants shall be taken into account for the selection of members to each Committee. A Member can hold membership of only one Committee of the Centre.
    3. Executive Council shall provide reasons for the selection of members to each committee. Decision of the Executive Council shall be final.
    4. Each committee shall have not more than 10 members.
    5. The Executive Council shall have the power to modify the requirement and composition of committees.
    6. There shall be one coordinator in each committee from the members of the committee.
  10. OBLIGATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE CENTRE
    1. Every member of the Centre upon being admitted to membership of the Centre agrees to use his/her best endeavours:
      1. To comply with the terms of the Constitution of the Centre;
      2. To comply with the University’s rules, policies and procedures;
      3. To arrange, promote, co-ordinate and co-operate in programmes for research and otherwise in the Centre;
      4. To engage in joint research programmes carried out by members of the Centre;
    2. A member may be expelled or suspended by the Director, after consultation with the Executive Committee. The Director, if in its opinion, a member has engaged in conduct which is prejudicial to the activities of the Centre or is in breach of this Constitution, shall inquire into any misconduct involving a member, and may take appropriate disciplinary action against such member.

      Provided that non-performance of any responsibility delegated to a member or deliberate non-availability for the event of the Centre shall be deemed to be prejudicial to the activities of the Centre.

  11. INTERNAL-AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
    1. There shall be a maximum of 10 members in the Internal-Affairs Committee.
    2. The interested members, with relevant experience, of the General Body shall apply for the membership of this Committee. The Executive Council shall select members from such applications keeping in view the aims and purpose of the Centre.
    3. The functions of the Internal-Affairs Committee are:
      a) To arrange, promote, co-ordinate and co-operate in programmes of the Centre within the University;
      b) To educate, make aware and sensitize students of the University in order to further the objectives of the Centre;
      c) To assist and collaborate with other Committees of the Centre;
      d) To perform any other function as decided in consultation with the Executive Council.
  12. OUTREACH COMMITTEE
    1. There shall be a maximum of 10 members in the Outreach Committee.
    2. The interested members, with relevant experience, of the General Body shall apply for the membership of this Committee. The Executive Council shall select members from such applications keeping in view the aims and purpose of the Centre.
    3. The functions of the Outreach Committee are:
      a) To arrange, promote, co-ordinate and co-operate in programmes of the Centre outside the University;
      b) To educate, make aware and sensitize people in order to further the objectives of the Centre;
      c) To assist and collaborate with other Committees of the Centre.
      d) To liaise with NGOs, Civil Societies, Public Authorities for conducting research and undertaking projects in furtherance of the objectives of the Centre.
      e) To perform any other function as decided in consultation with the Executive Council.
  13. RESEARCH COMMITTEE
    1. There shall be a maximum of 10 members in the Research Committee.
    2. The interested members, with relevant experience, of the General Body shall apply for the membership of this Committee. The Executive Council shall then select members from such applications through a procedure they deem fit.

      Provided that such procedure shall be notified within a reasonable time before any selection to the committee is made.

    3. The functions of the Research Committee are:
      a) To conduct quality research in furtherance of the objectives of the Centre.
      b) To assist and collaborate with other Committees of the Centre.
      c) To perform any other function as decided in consultation with the Executive Council.
  14. PUBLICATION COMMITTEE:
    1. There shall be a maximum of 10 members in the Publication Committee.
    2. The interested members, with relevant experience, of the General Body shall apply for the membership of this Committee. The Executive Council shall then select members from such applications through a procedure they deem fit.

      Provided that such procedure shall be notified within a reasonable time before any selection to the committee is made.

    3. The functions of the Publication Committee are:
      a) To bring out quality research publications in consultation with the Research Committee in furtherance of the objectives of the Centre.
      b) To maintain a quality standard in any research material, academic or otherwise, produced or compiled by the Centre.
      c) To assist and collaborate with other Committees of the Centre.
      d) To perform any other function as decided in consultation with the Executive Council.
  15. MEETINGS
    There will be at least one Annual General Meeting of all members excluding a mandatory meeting to discuss the Annual Report prior to its submission to the Chairman.
  16. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
    1. Any intellectual property in material developed by the Centre will be owned by the University or as otherwise agreed to by the University in writing provided that nothing in this clause will affect the rights of staff or the University under the University’s legislation, policies or procedures relating to intellectual property.
    2. Any assets acquired under the auspices of the Centre will vest in the University.
  17. AMENDMENTS TO CONSTITUTION
    Any amendment to this Constitution must be recommended by the Executive Council to the Chairman.
  18. CONTRACTS
    Members of the Centre have no authority to enter into contracts which purport to bind the University unless the member is authorised to so do and has complied with all relevant legislation, policies and procedures of the University.
We are presently also coordinating with Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative India (CHRI) , National Campaign for People’s Right to Information (NCPRI), Transparency International India (TII) , The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) in relation to the exemption of political parties from the ambit of the RTI Act. Brief description of the aforementioned Institutions is as below:

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) was established in 1999 by a group of professors from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad. In 1999, Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by them with Delhi High Court asking for [or requesting] the disclosure of the criminal, financial and educational background of the candidates contesting elections. Based on this, the Supreme Court in 2002, and subsequently in 2003, made it mandatory for all candidates contesting elections to disclose criminal, financial and educational background prior to the polls by filing an affidavit with the Election Commission.

The first election watch was conducted by ADR in 2002 for Gujarat Assembly Elections whereby detailed analysis of the backgrounds of candidates contesting elections was provided to the electorate in order to help the electorate make an informed choice during polls. Since then ADR has conducted Election Watches for almost all state and parliament elections in collaboration with the National Election Watch. It conducts multiple projects aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in the political and electoral system of the country.
Mission of the ADR is to improve governance and strengthen democracy by continuous work in the area of Electoral and Political Reforms. The ambit and scope of work in this field is enormous, hence, ADR has chosen to concentrate its efforts in the following areas pertaining to the political system of the country:

  • Corruption and criminalization in the political process.
  • Empowerment of the electorate through greater dissemination of information relating to the candidates and the parties, for a better and informed choice.
  • Need for greater accountability of Political Parties.

The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) is an independent, non-partisan, international non-governmental organisation, mandated to ensure the practical realisation of human rights in the countries of the Commonwealth. In 1987, several Commonwealth associations founded CHRI because they felt that while the member countries had both a common set of values and legal principles from which to work and a forum within which to promote human rights, there was relatively little focus on human rights issues.

Access to information was the foundation on which CHRI’s other programmes were later established. Without the initial knowledge to hold governments to account, justice cannot be served. CHRI believes that the RTI is fundamental to the realization of economic and social rights as well as civil and political rights. Informed participation by all must therefore be guaranteed by a strong legislation and the process of law-making itself must be participatory and informed by the realities of the community concerned. CHRI works to raise public awareness about the value of the right to information. It collaborates with policy advocates and community based groups, catalyses the development of networks of concerned CSOs and provides advice and technical expertise to governments and civil society actors to draft RTI laws and implement them effectively.

CHRI believes in engaging with both the supply side – namely – the Government and the demand side – namely the citizenry through civil society organisations and the media for the promotion of transparent government. To this end, CHRI provides its technical expertise on law-making and implementation which is honed over the years in the crucible of its experience of being deeply involved in such processes in India and South Asia.

The National Campaign for People’s Right to Information (NCPRI)organizational structure, at present, consists of members, a working committee and seven co-convenors. The NCPRI has, as members, individuals who subscribe to the common objectives and values of the campaign. Membership forms are required to be posted to the NCPRI office in New Delhi along with a demand draft/cheque of the amount specified for a defined period of membership. The membership forms are available in the join us section. Membership fee is Rs.100 (with an appeal to contribute Rs 500) for a period of 5 years and membership will expire at the end of the calendar year i.e. December 31.

Today, the NCPRI engages and interacts with the State to implement the RTI law and to ensure that the Act is not amended or provisions weakened. The Campaign attempts ensure that the law is effective and universally accessible, addressing both individual and social problems.In disseminating the ability to use the RTI, the NCPRI supports the developing of materials related to transparency and governance, the raising of awareness about the fundamental value of information, the conduct of research, and the setting up of information clearing houses. It also helps with the filing of information requests, fighting legal cases, and the holding of public hearings.

Transparency International India (TII) is a leading non political, independent, non-governmental anti-corruption organisation of India. TII has extensive expertise and understanding of issues of corruption in India.

From villages in rural India to the corridors of power in Delhi, TII gives voice to the victims and witnesses of corruption. We work in constructive manner in the interest of the country together with Union and State governments, like minded civil society organizations, corporate, academia, media and common citizens. The main aim is to reduce corruption, bribery, create deterrence for abuse of power, promote good governance and the rule of law.

TII raises awareness about corruption; advocate legal and policy reforms at national and state levels; design practical tools for institutions, individuals and companies wishing to combat corruption; and act as a leading centre of anti-corruption expertise in India

Contact Us

Director,
Centre for Transparency and Accountability in Governance
National Law University, Delhi
Sector 14, Dwarka
New Delhi -110078
Room No. 209, Academic Block
E-mail: ctag@nludelhi.ac.in

RESEARCH TEAM

Jeet Singh Mann
Director
ctag@nludelhi.ac.in

Books

  • Edited Book on International Conference on Transparency and Accountability in Governance-Two volumes, NLU Delhi Press, October, 2012, ISBN No: 978-81-923638-7-5 Vol. I, Vol. II
  • Edited Book titled “Transparency and Accountability in governance” Published by the Centre for Accountability and Transparency in Governance, NLU Delhi, 2013 with ISBN NO. 978-81-923638-8-2
  • ebook on Labour Law Reforms CTAG- NLUD 2021 Click here…
  • Book on Liberalising Labour Law 2023 Click here…
  • Monograph on Comparative Legal Education and Research in India and China 2023 Click here…
  • Book on RTI SAARC Nations
  • Book on Corruption in Governance

Journals

The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, Centre for Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337; Vol-I, 2015

2016 – Vol. II of the The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337

2017 – Vol. III of the The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337

2018 – Vol. IV of the The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337 See the attachment

2019 – Vol. V of the The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337 See the attachment

2020 – Vol. VI of the The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337 See the attachment

2021-22 Vol. VII and VIII of the The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337 See the attachment

2023 Vol. IX of The International Journal of Transparency and Accountability in Governance, NLU Delhi, ISSN NO: 2395-4337 See the attachment