Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Corruption, a pervasive challenge in India, undermines good governance, economic development, and social justice. Despite a robust legal framework including the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, and the establishment of institutions like the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), corrupt practices continue to plague the nation. The persistence of corruption suggests that existing measures are insufficient, necessitating a re-evaluation of strategies and a shift towards more effective, preventative, and systemic solutions. The recent Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2023, where India ranks 93rd out of 180 countries, highlights the continued need for improvement.
Strengthening Preventative Measures
The focus needs to shift from reactive measures (investigation and punishment) to proactive prevention. This can be achieved through:
- Digital Governance & Transparency: Expanding the use of technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to automate processes, reduce human interface, and enhance transparency in public services. Examples include online procurement systems, digital land records, and direct benefit transfer (DBT).
- Simplification of Procedures: Streamlining bureaucratic processes and reducing discretionary powers of officials. Complex regulations create opportunities for rent-seeking behavior.
- Ethical Frameworks & Training: Strengthening ethical education and training for public servants at all levels. This should include a focus on values, integrity, and accountability. Regular refresher courses and workshops are crucial.
- Promoting a Culture of Integrity: Public awareness campaigns to promote ethical behavior and social accountability. Encouraging whistleblowing and protecting whistleblowers is essential.
Enhancing Detection & Investigation
While prevention is key, robust detection mechanisms are also vital:
- Strengthening Investigative Agencies: Providing investigative agencies like the CBI and ED with greater autonomy, resources, and specialized training. Ensuring their independence from political interference is paramount.
- Leveraging Technology for Surveillance: Utilizing data analytics and AI to identify patterns of suspicious transactions and potential corruption. The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) can play a role in this.
- Improving Whistleblower Protection: The Whistleblower Protection Act, 2014, needs to be effectively implemented and strengthened to encourage individuals to report corruption without fear of retaliation.
- Asset Declaration & Verification: Mandatory and regular asset declaration by public servants, coupled with robust verification mechanisms.
Ensuring Swift & Impartial Punishment
The effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts hinges on swift and impartial punishment:
- Fast-Track Courts: Establishing dedicated fast-track courts to expedite the trial of corruption cases. The pendency of cases is a major impediment to justice.
- Strengthening Judicial Accountability: Addressing issues of judicial delays and ensuring accountability within the judiciary.
- Confiscation of Ill-Gotten Wealth: Strengthening the legal framework for confiscating the assets of corrupt individuals. The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988, needs to be effectively enforced.
- Public Disclosure of Asset Forfeiture: Transparency in the process of asset forfeiture to build public trust.
Citizen Empowerment & Social Accountability
Active citizen participation is crucial in combating corruption:
- Strengthening RTI: Ensuring effective implementation of the RTI Act and addressing issues of denial of information and delays in responses.
- Social Audit: Promoting social audits of public projects and programs to enhance transparency and accountability.
- Citizen Charters: Implementing citizen charters to define service standards and provide redressal mechanisms for grievances.
- Empowering Civil Society Organizations: Supporting and empowering civil society organizations working in the field of anti-corruption.
| Mechanism | Current Status | Proposed Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| RTI Act | Underutilized due to delays & denials | Strengthen implementation, penalize information officers for delays |
| CVC | Limited powers & resources | Grant greater autonomy & investigative powers |
| Prevention of Corruption Act | Outdated provisions | Amend to include bribery of foreign officials & enhance penalties |
Conclusion
Tackling corruption requires a holistic and sustained effort encompassing preventative measures, robust detection mechanisms, swift punishment, and active citizen participation. Moving beyond a purely punitive approach towards a system that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct is essential. Investing in technology, strengthening institutions, and empowering citizens are crucial steps towards building a corruption-free India. A multi-stakeholder approach, involving government, civil society, and the private sector, is vital for achieving lasting success.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.