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 Advanced 20-Mark Series – Answer 15
Rise of Regulatory Commissions & Democratic Control

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 Question

“The rise of independent regulatory commissions reflects the transition toward a regulatory state, yet it raises concerns about democratic control.” Critically examine.

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📝 Advanced 20-Mark Model Answer

Economic liberalization and globalization have led to the emergence of independent regulatory commissions tasked with overseeing markets, ensuring competition, and protecting consumer interests. In India, bodies such as SEBI, TRAI, and the Competition Commission represent this regulatory transformation.

These commissions operate with technical expertise, relative autonomy, and quasi-judicial powers. Their independence enhances credibility, stability, and professional decision-making, insulated from short-term political pressures.

However, the diffusion of authority to independent regulators raises concerns regarding democratic accountability. Unlike traditional ministries, regulatory bodies are not directly answerable through routine parliamentary mechanisms.

Delegated legislation and specialized discretion may limit transparency if oversight frameworks are weak. Questions regarding appointment processes, tenure security, and review mechanisms further complicate democratic control.

Judicial review, parliamentary committees, and statutory reporting requirements attempt to balance autonomy with accountability.

The challenge lies in maintaining regulatory independence while ensuring transparency and responsiveness to public interest.

Thus, the rise of regulatory commissions reflects modernization of governance, but their legitimacy depends on embedding democratic safeguards within regulatory frameworks.

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Prepared by Shaktimatha Learning
Regulatory Autonomy + Democratic Oversight = High 18–20 Mark Potential