Combating Corruption: Lessons out of India

Abstract

This paper deals with the ubiquitous problem of corruption among public officials– both elected and appointed, in India. By looking at the legal and administrative provisions to combat corruption, it is shown how futile the attempts so far have been. Among the plethora of reasons for failure to combat corruption, it is concluded that the more important ones are the inadequate and inefficient enforcement mechanisms, lack of political will, and more importantly the cultural context of social tolerance and easy forgiveness. Any outrage that is there is largely confined to rhetoric, not action. Despite some helpful developments such as the newly conferred freedom of information, active investigative media and engaged civic groups, reasons for optimism appear to be minimal. The need seems to be a serious effort to develop sound norms by changing the societal culture, which places the premium on the shoulders of political parties.