Q. In the integrity index of Transparency International, India stands very low. Discuss briefly the legal, political, economic, social and cultural factors that have caused the decline of public morality in India. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2016
Keywords of the Question
- Integrity Index of Transparency International
- India – Low Ranking
- Decline of Public Morality
- Legal, Political, Economic, Social & Cultural Factors
Directive Word
Discuss – Essentially this is a written debate where you are using your skill at reasoning, backed up by carefully selected evidence to make a case for and against an argument, or point out the advantages and disadvantages of a given context. Remember to arrive at a conclusion
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Mention India’s low ranking in the Transparency International Integrity Index.
- Briefly state the significance of public morality and its decline.
Body
- Legal Factors
- Inadequate laws and enforcement.
- Judicial delays and loopholes.
- Political Factors
- Political corruption and patronage.
- Lack of transparency in political funding.
- Economic Factors
- Economic disparities and poverty.
- Influence of money in politics and governance.
- Social Factors
- Social acceptance of corruption.
- Lack of awareness and education.
- Cultural Factors
- Cultural practices like nepotism and favoritism.
- Hierarchical societal structure.
Conclusion
- Summarize the key points discussed.
- Suggest measures to improve public morality and integrity.
- End with a positive note on the potential for reform and progress.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
India’s low ranking in the Transparency International Integrity Index highlights significant concerns about public morality. This decline is influenced by various legal, political, economic, social, and cultural factors that undermine ethical standards and governance.
Body
Legal Factors
- Inadequate Laws and Enforcement: Existing laws are often insufficient to deter corruption and unethical behavior. Weak enforcement mechanisms further exacerbate the problem.
- Example: The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 aims to combat corruption but has faced challenges in implementation.
- Judicial Delays and Loopholes: Prolonged judicial processes and legal loopholes allow offenders to escape accountability, fostering a culture of impunity.
- Example: The Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill has been proposed to address judicial accountability but is yet to be enacted.
Political Factors
- Political Corruption and Patronage: Corruption within political institutions erodes public trust. Patronage systems prioritize personal loyalty over merit, leading to inefficiency and unethical practices.
- Example: The Electoral Bonds Scheme has been criticized for lack of transparency in political funding.
- Lack of Transparency in Political Funding: Opaque political funding mechanisms enable the influence of money in politics, compromising the integrity of democratic processes.
- Example: The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2023 aims to enhance transparency in political funding.
Economic Factors
- Economic Disparities and Poverty: Widespread poverty and economic inequality create environments where corruption can thrive, as individuals may resort to unethical means for survival.
- Example: Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) aim to reduce economic disparities by promoting financial inclusion.
- Influence of Money in Politics and Governance: The significant role of money in elections and governance leads to policy decisions that favor wealthy individuals and corporations, undermining public interest.
- Example: The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is designed to curb money laundering but requires stringent enforcement.
Social Factors
- Social Acceptance of Corruption: In some regions, corruption is socially accepted as a norm, reducing the stigma associated with unethical behavior.
- Example: Campaigns like “MyGov” aim to increase public awareness and reduce social acceptance of corruption.
- Lack of Awareness and Education: Limited awareness and education about ethical standards and the consequences of corruption contribute to its persistence.
- Example: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 includes provisions to promote ethical education.
Cultural Factors
- Cultural Practices like Nepotism and Favoritism: Cultural norms that prioritize family and community ties over merit can lead to nepotism and favoritism, undermining fairness and integrity.
- Example: The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 aims to curb nepotism and favoritism in public examinations.
- Hierarchical Societal Structure: A hierarchical societal structure can perpetuate power imbalances and reduce accountability, making it easier for corruption to flourish.
- Example: The Digital India Act, 2023 aims to create a more accountable and transparent digital ecosystem.
Conclusion
In summary, the decline of public morality in India is a multifaceted issue influenced by legal, political, economic, social, and cultural factors. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive reforms, including strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing transparency, promoting economic equity, raising awareness, and challenging cultural norms that enable unethical behavior. With concerted efforts, India can improve its integrity and public morality, fostering a more just and ethical society.
Mind Map
