The Union Cabinet has given its nod for the amendment of Whistle Blowers Protection Act 2011.  The Bill seeks to provide protection to the whistleblowers, who disclose sensitive information related to act of corruption, misuse of power, or criminal offence by a public servant. The amendments would address concerns relating to national security. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  It is expected that the amendment bill will be moved during the budget session of parliament.

The amendment incorporates ‘necessary provisions’ to keep issues of national security out of its purview. Anti-corruption activists have argued that the new provisions could weaken the fight against corruption in key sectors like defence. In the past, several dubious deals like the Bofors, Scorpene, Tatra truck and Chopper scams have been exposed by whistle blowers.

Tidbits

• The Whistle Blowers Protection Act received the President’s assent on 9 May 2014. The Act has not come into force till now.
• Any public servant or any other person including a non-governmental organization may make a disclosure to the Central or State Vigilance Commission.
• According to the Act, the Vigilance Commission shall not disclose the identity of the complainant except to the head of the department if he deems it necessary.

GK Questions

• What is the name of the Company which is associated with the Chopper Scam? AugustaWestland (Italy).
• AugustaWestland is a fully owned subsidiary of which company? Finmeccanica
• What is the name of the defence minister who was given a clean chit from the Kargil Coffin scam? George Fernandes