India’s success story was lauded after it registered massive growth in the ease of doing business index under the leadership of the Modi government. Finally, the government has stepped up and taken charge to improve the rule of law ranking.
World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2022 released its ranking -India stood at 77th in 140 Countries. WJP identifies the Rule of Law as “a durable system of laws, institution, norms and community and commitment” ensuring accountable, open, fair government; just law; accessible and impartial justice; respecting and protecting fundamental rights of people. Index measures how the “rule of law” is experienced and perceived by the general public.
Government new Rule Of Law
According to WJP, the “Rule of law “has declined globally over the years. Authoritarianism is inversely proportional to the Rule of Law. Along with COVID, the Pandemic of human rights violations and the rise of authoritarianism is a global concern. “Rule of Law is also a key underpinning of democracy, which is flattering in many countries around the world.”
India scored 0.50 in the “rule of law” index in 2022 which has remained approximately the same over the years. However, there was a “big decline in fundamental rights and checks and balances. “Senior Advisor to WJP noted. Many legal analysts and thought leaders have suggested creating a systematic approach to measure the Rule of law in India before.
Finally, the Law Ministry has formed a Committee which will work along with other ministers and departments to improve India’s ranking in the Rule of Law Index. To plan the road map a project management unit has been set up consisting of experts previously engaged with WJP. The agency that connected surveys for WJP to measure the state of rule of law is also working with the government to improve the survey outcomes.
Ministry of statistics and programme implementation will be assisting in creating its own Rule of law index. A communication outreach plan to increase awareness of legal rights and change perception is also being formulated. A separate ROLI webpage will also be made to update the progress around the Department of Justice Website.
The World Bank recognised India as the top improver on the Ease of Doing Business index. Reformative actions and inclusive growth with the unwavering commitment from the government made India take that giant leap. The same level of commitment and attention is expected from the government for building a rule-of-law society.
