The central government is seen to be tightening the screws on social activists who these days function under the banner of one or the other Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO). To an extent, such controls are a requirement and the way forward. For, many such organisations seem to be flouting rules, hogging media publicity, and not observing financial discipline. By a June notification, the government has brought under the definition of ‘public servants’ all individuals and NGOs that have received government funds of a minimum of Rs1 crore, or foreign donations of Rs10 crore.Being public servants, they would thus be subject to scrutiny of the Lokpal laws. This is raising the hackles of many.
Very many NGOs in this country are doing a good job and promoting public causes. Some of these are run by religious organisations such as the Missionaries of Charity. Some others are run by industrial houses which feel the need to promote Corporate Social Responsibility, a rare thing in Indian corporate scenario.
There are a few organisations that want to share a part of their profits with the disadvantaged sections of society, special needs groups, or are promoting endeavours related to environment or cleanliness. They earn all our respect. Governments would need to back them and act as facilitators for good causes. However, like in every field of human activity, black-sheep are one too many in this field.
Such unscrupulous people organise funds by multiple means, peddle influence, and pocket money. They set up plush offices, are generally airborne, lead luxurious lifestyles and do little for society. Rather, they make merry on the misfortunes of the multitudes around them. The black sheep need be reined in. There are also those who get foreign funds that are used for suspected nefarious activities.
There is no reason why any genuine NGO or activist working in a transparent fashion should be worried about scrutiny by the Lokpal or any other government institution. Those who do the right thing in the right manner would welcome such scrutiny as it would reinforce their credentials. Like in the case of an industrial unit that does what it is licensed for. It will have nothing to hide. Those NGOs that get funds from the public exchequer by way of grants or aid should be all the more willing to face public scrutiny.
On the other hand, there are some who see this as a way the Narendra Damodardass Modi government has chosen to settle past scores and take on activists such as Teesta Setalvad and the like. There might be truth in such allegations since many see the present government as being vengeful of people who openly oppose it.
For instance, Hardik Patel has now been forced out of Gujarat and dumped with the baggage of too many police cases. The Prime Minister has to govern the nation with a fresh frame of mind if he aspires to stay on in public perception as a worthy leader beyond this present term.
While activists need to get protection from being targeted, NGOs accepting huge funds also need to be held accountable. Also, the source of foreign funds as also its quantum and the way such money is used need to be tracked. In a world where terror is spreading wings fast, foreign cash flow and handling needs to come under scrutiny.
