The issue of corruption in India is discussed everywhere now a days and when I posted something related to the burning issue of RAFALE, one of my close friends /Colleague wrote that this is all happening, because the voters are corrupt, and we are only responsible for electing them. I appreciate his concern,and he is right also.

The main reason for bribery or corruption, is that the people in general are happy to do this, and give so long as, the demand is reasonable, and consistent with the favour done. Its only when the demand becomes exorbitant or when people are harassed that it comes to light. Corruption, is multidimensional and can never be contained with mere legislation in my opinion. Corruption stems from the greed and discontent which exacerbated because of societal acceptance, of corruption, and even appreciation of it.

Discontent arises from the fact that bright and talented civil servants are never allowed to work freely, and then face political pressures to make them fall in line. At the same time there is no recognition of  their work while their counterparts in corporate sectors are gaining wealth and fame by doing equal, if not more work. The criticism of corruption in the early years of democratic India was followed by tolerance of it in the years that followed and then culminated in honouring of the corrupt with high positions and even awards.

Severe forms of punishment alone can not be a deterrent as seen even in China where officials who are declared to be corrupt are simply executed. Ofcourse in India the menace of corruption is reaching peak and I feel, the corrective measures should begin from the top.

A strong accountability regime with transparent working structure and a more open and satisfying working environment are some of the long lasting solutions. Political leaders should resolutely decide to do away with it and engage themselves in the task of cleansing the system. Except paying lip service, all political parties, are totally corrupt without any exception.