It is known in the pandemic that our system of government is biased against access by the poor. In several states, public services such as free ration shops, government schools, and hospitals are inadequately staffed and several things are not available to people which are promised as rights during elections by the politicians.
While the poor do not have money to purchase public services which is their right, they have a vote which a politician wants. Some of us may have a disagreement that the public provides legislative rights. But it is hard to imagine that simply legislating rights will ensure that public expectation of delivery.
Trust in a public institution is relieved if people receive timely help when they are vulnerable. If the public institution does not help when needed by the people the breach of trust could be high and long-lasting irrespective of whether the system is blamed for shortage or sudden increase in demand.
The recent shortage of oxygen cylinders and vaccines in hospitals clearly shows the apathy of the government towards its citizen. They want the votes of people by creating virtual rallies and promising monetary incentives to the people. A huge sum of money is collected by political parties and leaders especially the current ruling party, in the name of contribution from big industrialists and businessmen for elections. In return, the contributors multiply their income by making a profit out of license and tender obtained with the help of political allies.
If we want our politicians to care for us, money must be removed from the political equation at least in terms of electing representatives and how the position is influenced by money. In the present scenario, it can be truly said: “When democracy is corrupt the best gravitates to the bottom, and the worst floats to the top”.