I agree with the author about the ravages of corruption on the economy and daily life.
The tradespeople are often from the low socio-economic classes. An average electrician, plumber, or bricklayer earns much more than an engineer in the West. The dignity of labour is lacking in India, often associated with the labour class being perceived as a lower social class.
No matter how much bureaucratic corruption is eradicated in India, the problem of potholes on roads will persist until tradespeople are accorded the dignity and extensive training they deserve.
Sunil, Another well-written article presented from a common man’s viewpoint, capturing everyday frustrations. I especially liked the way the solution to the problem was addressed. Looking forward to the next one!
Yes, every word here is true! Bureaucratic corruption is the killer because it's hydra-headed, layers within layers. The IO in most police stations is corrupt. So, cases against bureaucrats/politicians don't get far. And if some do, there's always the lethargic and lackadaisical criminal justice system that revels in shoving files deep into the innermost recesses of the court's archives where they sit and age and turn yellow. This is where China scores far better. It's not that there's no corruption in China, but punishment is swift and decisive. Alas, we cannot fit into that jacket because we are a democracy. Comparisons with other democracies are also not fair though. The combined population of Singapore and Estonia is less than half of Bangalore which, by the way, is only the fourth largest in India. It does make a difference. Big difference.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Yes, corruption in India is layered and persistent, and the slow pace of our justice system only adds to the frustration. Democracy means we can’t simply copy China’s methods, and, as you point out, India’s scale makes even the best foreign examples tough to replicate. Still, openly naming these challenges is the first step toward change—every conversation matters.
Thanks Srihari . Corruption in India cuts across all levels in India . The condition of roads is primarily due to money being siphoned off at different levels and not lack of technology. World class roads would mean shutting the tap off permanently.The same strategy that politicians deploy to keep the masses less educated and ignorant, by spending more on doles and not education and health .
I agree with the author about the ravages of corruption on the economy and daily life.
The tradespeople are often from the low socio-economic classes. An average electrician, plumber, or bricklayer earns much more than an engineer in the West. The dignity of labour is lacking in India, often associated with the labour class being perceived as a lower social class.
No matter how much bureaucratic corruption is eradicated in India, the problem of potholes on roads will persist until tradespeople are accorded the dignity and extensive training they deserve.
Brilliant piece, Sunil. A powerful reminder that until accountability becomes non-negotiable, our cities will keep resembling the moon craters.
Thanks Famy. Totally agree with you.
Sunil, Another well-written article presented from a common man’s viewpoint, capturing everyday frustrations. I especially liked the way the solution to the problem was addressed. Looking forward to the next one!
Thanks a lot Sunish
Yes, every word here is true! Bureaucratic corruption is the killer because it's hydra-headed, layers within layers. The IO in most police stations is corrupt. So, cases against bureaucrats/politicians don't get far. And if some do, there's always the lethargic and lackadaisical criminal justice system that revels in shoving files deep into the innermost recesses of the court's archives where they sit and age and turn yellow. This is where China scores far better. It's not that there's no corruption in China, but punishment is swift and decisive. Alas, we cannot fit into that jacket because we are a democracy. Comparisons with other democracies are also not fair though. The combined population of Singapore and Estonia is less than half of Bangalore which, by the way, is only the fourth largest in India. It does make a difference. Big difference.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Yes, corruption in India is layered and persistent, and the slow pace of our justice system only adds to the frustration. Democracy means we can’t simply copy China’s methods, and, as you point out, India’s scale makes even the best foreign examples tough to replicate. Still, openly naming these challenges is the first step toward change—every conversation matters.
Thanks Srihari . Corruption in India cuts across all levels in India . The condition of roads is primarily due to money being siphoned off at different levels and not lack of technology. World class roads would mean shutting the tap off permanently.The same strategy that politicians deploy to keep the masses less educated and ignorant, by spending more on doles and not education and health .