By Nikita Bothra:
Corruption, in simple term denotes work done through illegal and undue means.To term corruption is possibly, the biggest issue which crumbles the framework of our nation. This disquiet needs tackling with a sense of urgency, fortitude and on a war footing.
The country in the last few months, has witnessed upsurge of a number of egregious events. At present, several loud and fuming voices of grievances in the public realm bellow on the issues which have deeply impaired our nation.
Today the situation demands our elected legislators and leaders to acknowledge and exhibit their cooperative role and responsibility in re-establishing the sense of purpose and confidence in national institutions.
Against the backdrop of 2G, CWG and Adarsh scams, and also outflow of tapes involving corporate lobbyist Niira Radia’s conversations with personalities like Ratan Tata, politicians and journalists, the need to handle or rather to save the nation against such corruptible practices is now the core issue that cannot skip our leader’s attention.Such an issue like the leakage of tapes that also involves some prominent journalists is a slap on the face of the press and the media which undoubtedly is generating pessimism, which consequently disrupts India’s growth story.
Establishment of legitimately independent and constitutionally constituted regulatory bodies, which are manned by persons judicially trained in the concerned field, would be the principal and vital step to refurbish public confidence.
By dealing adamantly and aggressively against bribery and corruption while frankly debating such (corrupt) issues by elected legislators, is the only means left to encourage the country’s citizens.Due to the unjust practices, the benefits of growth are not adequately available to the poor and marginalised sections because of impediment to economic development. The reasons behind this are some critical issues like environmental distress and differences in viewpoints between central and state governments.
The suitable strategy for the governments both central and state firstly includes statutory confessions by all government departments on commercial decisions. This is the best way to keep government departments honest. The awareness that their financial verdicts are available for media and people to inspect without relying wholly on RTI, is a great way to promote integrity. Besides a relook on the independent regulatory organisations is an alternative to cross check corruptible practices.
Good governance has concrete benefits in terms of money. It perks up fiscal position of and permits governments to directly bring impact to the lives of more people in our country that need government assistance and also build a more sustainable and long-lasting growth cycle by fostering investments for the future.
A very good example of profit of governance, is the year’s decision to auction 3G/BWA spectrum in the face of pressure and lobbying from many quarters which also included the influential business personalities that garnered the government approx. Rs.140,000 crores which represents about 14% of the total Budget outlay.
The troubles of governance arise from the matter of unfettered discretion. The existing telecom scam is an example of compromised regulators, public policy detained by vested interests and administrative discretion which is used to the fullest to promote some private interests.
To cut down on corruption and pilferage, the governments have to plan policies in a way where there is no incentive for common citizens and the enforcers of the law to deceive.
The writer is a contributor of Youth Ki Awaaz. She is also a Trainee Journalist and a student of Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media. You can also join us as a contributor here.
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