Syllabus: GS I V- Ethics – Ethical philosophies
Corruption exists and thrives in Indian society because it is often socially accepted and, in some cases, even seen as aspirational. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.
(15 marks, 250 words)
Introduction:
Corruption, defined as the abuse of power for personal gain, is a pervasive issue that undermines governance, hampers economic development, and perpetuates inequality in society. In India, corruption is not only institutionalized in various sectors but also deeply ingrained in the social fabric. It often thrives due to a complex interplay of cultural, political, and economic factors. The assertion that corruption exists and thrives in Indian society because it is socially accepted and, in some cases, seen as aspirational, requires careful consideration. In this context, the case of Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC), known for its corruption scandals, offers a pertinent example of how systemic issues perpetuate this malaise.
Body:
1. Corruption as Socially Accepted:
Corruption in India is often seen as a necessary evil in the quest for personal and professional success. This social acceptance stems from several factors:
- Normalization of Corruption: In many sectors, especially in government services, corruption is viewed as part of the system. People often feel that it is the only way to navigate bureaucratic hurdles or secure employment. The prevalence of bribery and nepotism in recruitment processes, like those in the RPSC, creates a sense that without corruption, advancement or success is nearly impossible.
- Cultural Tolerance: In some regions, a certain level of corruption is socially tolerated. People see bribery and influence-peddling not as criminal acts but as pragmatic responses to inefficiencies and delays in government systems. This tolerance is further reinforced when public officials or politicians involved in corruption continue to hold power or influence without facing repercussions, leading to the belief that such behavior is acceptable.
- Low Accountability and Weak Enforcement: The lack of stringent law enforcement, coupled with the slow judicial process, contributes to the perception that corruption is a risk-free activity. Even when corruption is exposed, the punishment is often minimal, which fosters a sense of impunity.
2. Corruption as Aspirational:
In some cases, corruption is viewed as a means to achieve success or to attain a better quality of life, and this aspiration is fuelled by the following:
- Economic Inequality and Disparity: India’s growing economic disparity has created a perception that wealth and success are often not attained through hard work alone. Many individuals, especially in the lower economic strata, see corruption as the quickest route to upward mobility. For instance, people may resort to bribery to secure jobs in government, gain access to public services, or expedite administrative procedures. This creates a vicious cycle where corruption is not only accepted but also desired.
- Perceived Lack of Meritocracy: The belief that hard work and merit are often secondary to connections and bribery in achieving success perpetuates the aspiration to engage in corrupt practices. This is evident in the education and recruitment systems, such as the RPSC, where corruption undermines meritocracy and breeds the perception that “getting ahead” requires more than just skill and competence.
- Politicization of Corruption: In some instances, political leaders who engage in corrupt practices are viewed as successful figures. Their wealth and power become a model for others to emulate. This perception of political corruption as a pathway to influence and wealth makes it aspirational for those seeking political or financial success in the system.
3. Measures to Reduce Corruption:
To tackle the deep-rooted problem of corruption, especially in systems like the RPSC, several measures need to be implemented:
- Strengthening Accountability and Transparency: Ensuring transparency in government functioning and recruitment processes can significantly reduce corruption. The introduction of digital platforms, transparent databases, and online applications can minimize human intervention and reduce opportunities for bribery.
- Institutional Reforms: Reforming recruitment bodies such as the RPSC to ensure merit-based selection and strict scrutiny can help curtail corruption. Introducing stronger background checks, audits, and oversight mechanisms will also help in making these institutions more accountable.
- Whistleblower Protection and Legal Reforms: Encouraging whistleblowers and ensuring their protection is crucial. Legal reforms that expedite trials and enforce harsher punishments for those involved in corruption can act as deterrents.
- Public Awareness and Social Change: Building awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption on society is essential. Public campaigns, education, and societal pressure can shift the perception of corruption from being socially accepted to being a punishable offense. Encouraging ethical conduct and integrity as core values is also critical.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while corruption may be socially accepted and even seen as aspirational in certain contexts, it remains a significant barrier to India’s social and economic progress. As the saying goes, “Corruption is not just an act of dishonesty; it is an act of injustice”, and to overcome it, a holistic approach involving legal, institutional, and cultural reforms is necessary. By addressing both the systemic drivers and social perceptions of corruption, India can work towards creating a more equitable and transparent society. The question remains: can we move beyond mere incremental changes, or will we continue to be trapped in the cycle of accepting and aspiring to corruption as a means to achieve success? The future of Indian welfare depends on the answers to this question.
Value addition:
“In India, corruption is not just a financial crime; it is a social practice.” – Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Indian jurist and social reformer.
“The price of doing the same old thing is far higher than the price of change.” – Bill Clinton, Former U.S. President, highlighting the need for institutional reforms and change in mindset
