Apropos the article "Corruption and Indian Democracy" (July 1) by Ashok K Lahiri, he argues that corruption is there in almost all countries, only the intensity and scale varies. He makes an important point that 'poverty exuberates corruption not because poor are amoral, but because people in power find underhand means the most convenient way of getting rich fast'. He acknowledges the vibrant nature of democracy in India but laments that all that has been done thus far by democratic institutions, including the judiciary, to curtail corruption is inadequate and that the remedy lies in expanding the economic opportunities with accelerating growth.
It may be true that corruption is 'global', but what is most worrisome for India is its spread and ferocity. Arguably, the perception and belief of widespread corruption was central to the defeat of the United Progressive Alliance in the last general elections. However, that education alone would reduce corruption is as much doubtful. Many believe that those found guilty of this gross moral turpitude are mostly people who are educated, rich and powerful. They are found to have misused these attributes to devise ingenious ways to camouflage their ill-designed motives.
That said, ushering in critical reforms in all sectors and accelerating development can greatly reduce corruption. These are as potent, if not more, than a vibrant democracy.
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It may be true that corruption is 'global', but what is most worrisome for India is its spread and ferocity. Arguably, the perception and belief of widespread corruption was central to the defeat of the United Progressive Alliance in the last general elections. However, that education alone would reduce corruption is as much doubtful. Many believe that those found guilty of this gross moral turpitude are mostly people who are educated, rich and powerful. They are found to have misused these attributes to devise ingenious ways to camouflage their ill-designed motives.
That said, ushering in critical reforms in all sectors and accelerating development can greatly reduce corruption. These are as potent, if not more, than a vibrant democracy.
T R Rustagi New Delhi
Letters can be mailed, faxed or e-mailed to:
The Editor, Business Standard
Nehru House, 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi 110 002
Fax: (011) 23720201
E-mail: letters@bsmail.in
All letters must have a postal address and telephone number