Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
UPSC frequently examines the functioning and evolution of democratic institutions, the role of civil society and public participation in governance, and the various forms and challenges of accountability in India's political system.
In a democracy, accountability is typically exercised through vertical mechanisms like elections and horizontal mechanisms involving institutions such as courts, auditors, and legislative committees. However, direct public action and sustained democratic dissent by citizens, particularly between electoral cycles, represent a crucial, albeit less formalised, form of holding power accountable and ensuring governmental responsiveness.