Examining Modi's Approach to Anti-Corruption Efforts in India

As India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has made fighting corruption a central plank of his government's agenda. While signs of progress can be observed at the top level, concerns remain about the persistence of corruption at the grassroots level. This article will explore the current state of anti-corruption efforts, the efficiency of existing measures, and the broader implications for India's societal landscape.

Reducing Corruption at the Top Level

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there have been notable signs of a reduction in corruption at the highest levels of government. This progress indicates a shift from the previous administration, particularly in terms of swift and decisive action on high-profile scams. For instance, the Sarada fund scam, which involved important figures in Trinamool Congress, has seen a slowing down in its investigation, suggesting that there may be a deviation from Modi's initial campaign promise of fast-acting measures.

Speculations and Clandestine Deals

Speculations about a clandestine pact between the government and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee for political reasons have gained traction. These theories arise from delays and inconsistencies in addressing corruption allegations that directly involve political allies. While such speculations require further investigation, they raise questions about the integrity and commitment to zero tolerance policies.

The Persistence of Corruption

Despite the high-profile efforts, corruption remains a significant challenge, particularly at the middle and lower levels of government. These layers are where ordinary citizens interact with government agencies on a daily basis, often leading to persistent and pervasive issues. There is little evidence to suggest that concrete plans are in place to address this pervasive problem, which continues to undermine the trust and functionality of India's democratic institutions.

Digital Transactions as a Solution

A promising albeit slow solution might lie in the increasing use of digital transactions. By moving citizen-government-bureaucracy interactions online, there is potential to reduce instances of corruption. Digital systems can enhance transparency and traceability, making it more difficult for corrupt practices to thrive. As more government services are digitized, the opportunities for fraud and manipulation are likely to decrease.

Chronic Nature of Corruption and Societal Change

Corruption in India is deeply ingrained and deeply rooted in societal norms. Addressing this chronic problem requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond mere administrative measures. Change is most likely to occur when there is a fundamental shift in the societal urge to be incorruptible. This can be achieved through sustained education, awareness campaigns, and civic engagement, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability.

While Prime Minister Modi's approach to fighting corruption is a positive step, it faces significant challenges. The effectiveness of current measures depends on a combination of strong leadership, transparency, and a widespread commitment to ethical behavior. Only through a comprehensive effort involving both top-down and bottom-up initiatives can India hope to significantly reduce the incidence and impact of corruption.