This refers to the editorial “Name and shame, Mr Tata” (November 17). The fact that it took almost a decade for Mr Tata to muster the courage to go public with corruption charges (though vague) deserves scrutiny. He should have had the courage to divulge the details long ago, setting an example of corporate probity. He has finally chosen to do it now, emboldened by a fresh activism against the corrupt, so he should still be applauded for a belated conscience call.
The system is so rotten that venality has seeped into the DNA of governance and public life. Anybody who raises a voice is swiftly bestowed with retribution, resulting in a conspiracy of silence. The intrepid few, who still blow the whistle, do so at their own risk, for there is no law to protect them. There has been much talk about the proposed whistleblower’s legislation, but owing to its empowering ramifications, the powers that be have chosen to adopt dilatory tactics.
Mr Tata’s revelations should be seen as a step in the right direction. It will encourage other business barons to speak out against corruption. Even if it’s much too late in the day, it is still a welcome beginning. The government should now clean its Augean stables.
Dushyant Singh Panwar, New Delhi
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