The Indian Constitution and many of India's laws, rules and customs address conflict of interest among parliamentarians, but it is clear that many are either not used, are underused, or are sidestepped by various means. Law-making bodies in other countries offer examples of how they can be made to work - such as the informal, behind-the-scenes work of the ethics commissioner in Canada and the explicit and vast list of prohibitions in the United States. While India can, and should, develop a system that will best suit its unique needs, it is clear that a more enforceable, practical system for dealing with conflict of interest is needed. Public disclosure of interests - including investments, employment and business ties - for members of both houses would be a constructive and trust-building first step.
