Sting Operations

Sting Operations have given new vistas of operation to media and made our society more vigilant. But it seems that in present scenario, they have lost their real spirit.
Constitutionally, they can be considered to be the 'Breach of Right to Privacy of an individual' (inferred right from article 21 of our constitution). But it won't be wrong to term them as neccessary violations in public interests.

However, in present scenario we may classify the Sting Operations into two types:
1. those Sting Operations which actually expose the defaulters in the society; &
2. the cooked up Sting Operations aimed at framing the innocents (like the recent Uma Khurana case in Delhi seems to be).

While the first type of Sting Operations are good for the society, they hardly serve their ultimate goal. We have seen that there is either no proper follow-up of the news in post-Sting Operation period or no concrete action is initiated against the defaulters. Consequently, they are eclipsed by other contemporary events. The Sting Operations have become more of money making and publicity stunts for the conducting agencies. The second type of Sting Operations are very lethal and bring sufferings to the aimed individuals and the society as a whole.

But no one can deny the fact that Sting Operations are indispensable also for the checks and balances in present society. Hence, some sort of proper legislation is the need of the hour. This will help us to reign in this necessary tool for its proper service to the society.

Some of the suggestions which I can suggest for thecause are:

1. There should be an impartial Governing Agency for the supervision of the conduct of the Sting Operations.

2. Provision should be there so that they can't be termed unconstitutional.

3. Sting Operations shouldn't be carried out without the prior permission of this Agency.

4. All the information relating to the initiation of the Sting Operation should be divulged to this Agency.

5. After the Sting Operation is over, its details should be submitted to the Agency for validating its authencity.

6. Once authenticated by the Agency, only then it can be aired via media and other procedures be initiated.

7. Those who carry out the Sting Operations should be made legally responsible for the conduct.

8. There shall be proper awards, benefits and recognition to those who carry out authentic Sting Operations.

9. Proper follow up of the post-Sting Operation period should be provided to the general masses by the media.

10. Proper care should be taken if sensitive issues are involved.

We must remember that Sting Operation is an effective tool and its good & bad use depends entirely upon its user. Be HUMANE 'n' JUST.

This is what I can contribute as an Indian citizen. Let's see what do you contribute.