Cabinet to consider changes in whistleblower bill

The Union Cabinet on Thursday is likely to keep information related to strategic and economic interest outside the ambit of the Whistleblower Bill 2011 already introduced in Parliament.

The Union Cabinet on Thursday is likely to keep information related to strategic and economic interest outside the ambit of the Whistleblower Bill 2011 already introduced in Parliament.

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The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has moved a proposal seeking post facto approval to the official amendments already moved in the Rajya Sabha, where the bill is pending.

The Lok Sabha has already approved the Bill. Once approved in the Rajya Sabha, the bill will have to be again approved by the Lok Sabha for final consent of Parliament.

The whistleblower bill also seeks to set up a mechanism to encourage persons to disclose information on corruption and willful misuse of power by public servants, including ministers.

The amendment prohibits disclosure affecting the sovereignty and integrity of the country. It also bars disclosure of information which could compromise strategic, scientific and economic interests of the country and affect foreign relations.