The Corrupting Nature of the Indian Bureaucracy: Insights from the IAS, IES Officers

Why do the majority of Indians who become IAS, IES officers, and other government bureaucrats end up being corrupt? This question has puzzled many, especially considering the system they function within.

Systemic Issues and Corruption

The answer to this question lies in the system itself. The private corporate authorities, unaccountable to corporate laws, often exist solely to corrupt government officials. This corruption is not just limited to individuals but is a systemic issue.

For government officials, the environment they are posted in plays a crucial role in their integrity. If the place they are posted is corruption-free, they are likely to uphold their principles. However, if the place is corrupted, it becomes a necessity for them to compromise in order to survive. Junior officials, in particular, may not allow them to maintain their integrity, compelling them to conform to the corrupt practices.

Pedagogic and Moral Theories

There are two opposing theories that help explain why some become corrupt. The first is that many join the government with the intention of working honestly, while the second posits that their primary goal is dishonest working and bribery.

Unfortunately, there is a lack of research to definitively prove which theory is accurate. However, it is evident that many officers start off as honest but gradually become corrupt over time.

Reasons for Corruption

Several reasons contribute to the corruption of these officers:

Frustration and Lack of Recognition

Many officers, in their initial years, are honest but fall prey to corruption due to frustration arising from a lack of recognition for their integrity and due to frequent transfers or being sidelined when it comes to prestigious postings. Their failure to comply with corrupt bosses or political masters further exacerbates the situation.

The Role of Personal Lives

The personal lives of these officers also play a significant role. Wives often push their husbands into corruption as they are often compared to the lifestyles of other officers' wives. This social comparison undoubtedly puts immense pressure on these officials to conform.

False Charges and Legal Battles

Another reason for corruption is the false charges that may be leveled against them by vested interests. These charges are common and can completely destroy an officer's career and personal life. In such situations, officers often have to clear their names through expensive legal battles, which necessitates the accumulation of money and the eventual compromise of their moral principles.

Conclusion

While many officers remain honest until the last, the vast majority become corrupt due to systemic pressure and personal challenges. Understanding the dynamics of the Indian bureaucracy is crucial in addressing this pervasive issue. Further research and systemic reforms are necessary to curb the corrupting nature of the system and ensure that the integrity of its officers is preserved.