GS 2 · 2016Governance12 Marks

Q9.In the integrity index of Transparency International, India stands very low. Discuss briefly the legal, political, social and cultural factors that have caused the decline of public morality in India.

Directive: Discuss briefly12 marks

Introduction

India's consistently low ranking in Transparency International's Integrity Index highlights a significant decline in public morality. This erosion stems from a complex interplay of legal, political, social, and cultural factors.

Body

Legal Factors
  • Weak enforcement of anti-corruption laws and prolonged judicial delays.
  • Loopholes in existing legislation and overly complex bureaucratic procedures.
Political Factors
  • Criminalization of politics and a noticeable lack of political will to address corruption.
  • Opaque electoral funding and the pervasive nexus between politicians, bureaucrats, and businesses.
Social Factors
  • Growing consumerism and the erosion of traditional ethical values.
  • Public apathy towards corruption and caste/community loyalties overriding merit.
Cultural Factors
  • The prevalent 'chalta hai' attitude and tolerance for petty corruption.
  • Glorification of wealth and a noticeable decline in ethical education.

Conclusion

These interconnected factors mutually reinforce each other, creating a systemic challenge to public morality. Addressing this requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach encompassing institutional reforms, ethical education, and active civic engagement.

149 words · target ~150