Decolonising Corporate Accountability: The Role of Mandatory CSR in Post-Colonial Economic Governance

This chapter examines India’s 2013 mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) legislation as a strategic tool for redefining economic sovereignty in the post-colonial era and advancing economic decolonisation. By mandating CSR contributions under Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013, India disrupts the neoliberal paradigm of voluntarism in corporate philanthropy, positioning CSR as a vehicle for state-driven development and social justice. Drawing on empirical data from corporate filings and government reports, the paper illustrates how the legislation addresses historical socio-economic inequities rooted in colonial and neoliberal exploitation. The analysis highlights whether mandatory CSR redistributes corporate wealth to marginalised communities, strengthens state oversight of corporate power, and fosters inclusive growth. Placing India’s experience within a broader Global South framework, we show the prevalence of colonial mentality in CSR expenditure. Such policies exemplify how post-colonial states can leverage CSR to align corporate practices with national development priorities. This study enriches decolonisation scholarship by demonstrating how mandatory CSR offers a viable mechanism for economic justice and social equity, providing valuable insights for other nations navigating the balance between corporate accountability and sustainable development.