essay on corruption in public life

Essay on Corruption in Public Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Corruption in Public Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on Corruption in Public Life

Understanding corruption in public life.

Corruption in public life refers to dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in authority. It can take various forms, such as bribery, embezzlement, or misuse of power for personal gain.

Impacts on Society

Corruption negatively affects society by diverting funds meant for public services, like healthcare and education. This leads to inadequate resources for citizens in need.

Undermining Trust

When public officials engage in corrupt practices, it erodes trust in government institutions. Citizens become disillusioned and lose faith in their leaders.

Combatting Corruption

To tackle corruption, transparency, accountability, and strong anti-corruption measures are essential for promoting integrity in public life.

250 Words Essay on Corruption in Public Life

Types of corruption.

Corruption can manifest in many forms, such as bribery, nepotism, embezzlement, and favoritism. These actions undermine the trust people have in their government and institutions.

Impact on Society

Corruption has a detrimental impact on society. It can lead to the misallocation of resources, hindering economic growth and development. Public services may suffer, affecting the quality of education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Consequences for Individuals

Corruption can also affect individuals directly. It can lead to unfair treatment, where those with money and connections gain advantages over others. This can create a sense of injustice and inequality.

Importance of Transparency

Transparency and accountability are essential in combating corruption. When public officials are transparent about their actions and decisions, it becomes easier to identify and address corrupt practices.

Role of Citizens

Citizens play a crucial role in fighting corruption. By staying informed, speaking out against corruption, and holding officials accountable, individuals can help create a more transparent and honest society.

500 Words Essay on Corruption in Public Life

Corruption in public life refers to the misuse of power and position by individuals entrusted with public resources for personal gain. It is a serious problem that can have detrimental effects on society as a whole. When those in authority engage in corrupt practices, it undermines the trust of the people and hampers the progress and development of a nation.

Forms of Corruption

Corruption in public life can take various forms. It may involve bribery, where officials accept money or gifts in exchange for favors or services. Nepotism is another form of corruption, where individuals in power show favoritism towards their family members or friends. Embezzlement occurs when public funds are misappropriated for personal use, depriving the public of much-needed resources.

Undermining Trust and Confidence

When public officials engage in corrupt practices, it erodes the trust and confidence of the public in the government. Citizens rely on their leaders to act in the best interests of the country, and when this trust is broken, it can lead to widespread disillusionment and unrest. Corruption breeds a culture of dishonesty and deceit that can be difficult to eradicate.

Preventing Corruption

Preventing corruption in public life requires a concerted effort from both the government and the citizens. Implementing strong anti-corruption laws and mechanisms can help deter corrupt practices and hold offenders accountable. Transparency and oversight in government operations can also help prevent the misuse of public resources.

In conclusion, corruption in public life is a serious issue that undermines the foundations of a just and fair society. It is essential for governments to take proactive measures to prevent corruption and hold those responsible for corrupt practices accountable. By fostering a culture of honesty, transparency, and accountability, we can work towards a future where public resources are used for the benefit of all members of society.

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Essay on Corruption for Students and Children

500+ words essay on corruption.

Essay on Corruption – Corruption refers to a form of criminal activity or dishonesty. It refers to an evil act by an individual or a group. Most noteworthy, this act compromises the rights and privileges of others. Furthermore, Corruption primarily includes activities like bribery or embezzlement. However, Corruption can take place in many ways. Most probably, people in positions of authority are susceptible to Corruption. Corruption certainly reflects greedy and selfish behavior.

Methods of Corruption

First of all, Bribery is the most common method of Corruption. Bribery involves the improper use of favours and gifts in exchange for personal gain. Furthermore, the types of favours are diverse. Above all, the favours include money, gifts, company shares, sexual favours, employment , entertainment, and political benefits. Also, personal gain can be – giving preferential treatment and overlooking crime.

Embezzlement refers to the act of withholding assets for the purpose of theft. Furthermore, it takes place by one or more individuals who were entrusted with these assets. Above all, embezzlement is a type of financial fraud.

The graft is a global form of Corruption. Most noteworthy, it refers to the illegal use of a politician’s authority for personal gain. Furthermore, a popular way for the graft is misdirecting public funds for the benefit of politicians .

Extortion is another major method of Corruption. It means to obtain property, money or services illegally. Above all, this obtainment takes place by coercing individuals or organizations. Hence, Extortion is quite similar to blackmail.

Favouritism and nepotism is quite an old form of Corruption still in usage. This refers to a person favouring one’s own relatives and friends to jobs. This is certainly a very unfair practice. This is because many deserving candidates fail to get jobs.

Abuse of discretion is another method of Corruption. Here, a person misuses one’s power and authority. An example can be a judge unjustly dismissing a criminal’s case.

Finally, influence peddling is the last method here. This refers to illegally using one’s influence with the government or other authorized individuals. Furthermore, it takes place in order to obtain preferential treatment or favour.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Ways of Stopping Corruption

One important way of preventing Corruption is to give a better salary in a government job. Many government employees receive pretty low salaries. Therefore, they resort to bribery to meet their expenses. So, government employees should receive higher salaries. Consequently, high salaries would reduce their motivation and resolve to engage in bribery.

Tough laws are very important for stopping Corruption. Above all, strict punishments need to be meted out to guilty individuals. Furthermore, there should be an efficient and quick implementation of strict laws.

Applying cameras in workplaces is an excellent way to prevent corruption. Above all, many individuals would refrain from indulging in Corruption due to fear of being caught. Furthermore, these individuals would have otherwise engaged in Corruption.

The government must make sure to keep inflation low. Due to the rise in prices, many people feel their incomes to be too low. Consequently, this increases Corruption among the masses. Businessmen raise prices to sell their stock of goods at higher prices. Furthermore, the politician supports them due to the benefits they receive.

To sum it up, Corruption is a great evil of society. This evil should be quickly eliminated from society. Corruption is the poison that has penetrated the minds of many individuals these days. Hopefully, with consistent political and social efforts, we can get rid of Corruption.

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Essay on Corruption, Its Causes, and Effects

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Causes of Corruption: Essay Introduction

Causes of corruption, effects of corruption, conclusion: what are the causes and effects of corruption.

Bibliography

Transparency International defines corruption as an act that abuses the entrusted power for private gain. This means that it violates the rights of individuals that have bestowed power, authority, and legitimacy. Corruption varies in degree and nature depending on the level of its occurrence, people involved, and circumstances that motivate individuals to be corrupt. Modernization has transformed corruption, and people adopt new and complicated ways of concealing their fraudulent activities. This paper presents the causes and effects of corruption in the public and private sector.

Politics is an effective way of ensuring power and resources are shared equally among all individuals from different backgrounds within a specified jurisdiction. However, people have used political activities and offices to advance their gains and neglect the need to be accountable and responsible to the public. The emergence of political elites has created room for corruption to flourish in public and private offices because people no longer respect the need to develop national programs that will benefit citizens. They have diverted the resources of the public to achieve their gains without considering the impacts of their actions on other citizens. Politics has allowed corrupt officers to win elections and take powerful positions in government. Therefore, citizens continue to suffer because their interests are not addressed by those they expected would alleviate their problems.

Also, the existence of artificial scarcity of resources has pushed people to look for cheap ways of getting what they need. For instance, the scarcity of employment and investment opportunities has led to stiff competition for the limited available resources. Therefore, people use unorthodox ways to persuade those in charge of approving projects to allow them to continue with their investment projects. People with malevolent intentions continue to destroy the economy of their nations as they create false impressions of the scarcity of resources. The existence of unhealthy competitions among businesses forces some of them to use unethical ways to persuade their clients to buy their products. Government officials in charge of quality standards are usually bribed to cover the activities of such investors, and this promotes corruption in businesses. This violates the rights of citizens to access quality products and services.

Thirdly, the ethical qualities of people in authority have decreased, and their value system deteriorated due to lack of strong moral teachings and responsibilities. People no longer have respect for the old ideals of moral and honest service delivery procedures, and society has become a haven for individuals that disregard human dignity. It is necessary to explain that modernity has clouded the need to respect the positions and individuals placed to serve others. People have little respect for morals that guide service delivery and ensure others benefit from their services. Therefore, corruption has been fuelled by poor moral values and lack of respect for human life.

The present generation is full of corrupt activities because people fail to condemn them. There are no strong civil societies to rebuke and oppose corrupt leaders, and this promotes the flourishing of this behavior in generations. The American public forum is dominated by debates on gay marriages, foreign policies, and inflated health bills, but nobody seems to pay attention to the escalating cases of corruption in the public and private sectors. The younger generations do not see the need to fight corruption because their predecessors support and cultivate it through modern systems and activities.

Lastly, widespread poverty and illiteracy have contributed to endemic corruption in modern societies. There are efforts to educate people, especially the rural folks, to ensure they know their rights and freedoms to reduce corruption in their societies. However, these efforts seem to bear no fruits because poverty drives them to seek cheap and quick ways of accessing their needs. Also, poverty makes people desperate, and thus, they do anything that will ensure they have food on their tables. Therefore, corruption flourishes in most societies because people do not know their rights and those that do have limited resources to access them.

Corruption violates the rights and freedoms of individuals to get basic services from public and private offices. This means that this practice compromises the quality of services offered by employees in the public and private sectors and puts the lives of citizens at risk. Corrupt officials do not offer equal services to clients because they treat some with more interests than others. This violates the provisions of equality and the rights for justice in various issues. This makes public institutions and offices to become illegitimate because of misusing their democratic power for private gains.

Also, corruption hinders the effective development of political systems in a country. This vice promotes patronage that is serious threats to democratic processes. Most corrupt nations experience civil disobedience and political instability that hamper development projects. The introduction of multi-party democratic systems is usually hampered by the corruption that compromises the legitimacy of political parties and individuals. Civil disobedience and lack of trust in political institutions propel individuals to protest and demand the removal of their leaders from power.

Moreover, this vice stalls development projects and subjects citizens to abject poverty because of a lack of transparency and accountability in public offices. Corruption enables few individuals that have money to have their way and get what they want while those that do not have been forced to look for other alternatives. Poverty and unemployment are common occurrences in societies that condone corruption, and they cannot develop because of poor management systems. The need to offer quality services like improving infrastructure, medical facilities, schools, and social amenities is compromised by the lack of transparent processes of awarding tenders and distributing resources in a society.

Lastly, this vice discourages unity and cooperation in society because some individuals think they are more important than others. Unequal distribution of national resources and restricted access to public services lead to frustration and apathy among citizens, and this weakens the fabric that binds members of the society. This leads to social inequality and the emergence of class differences that violate the dignity and rights of individuals. Uncontrolled corruption widens the gap between the rich and poor, and this results in a weak civil society.

Corruption is caused by man-made factors like capitalism, lack of transparency and accountability, nepotism, tribalism, poverty, weak social and political structures, and poverty. This vice lowers the pace of national development, weakens societies, and increases poverty. Therefore, people should work hard to ensure they fight corruption by educating their members on the importance of transparent practices. Also, government systems should be programmed to detect and eliminate this vice, and those found promoting it should face harsh penalties.

Johnston, M., Syndromes of Corruption: Wealth, Power, and Democracy. Cambridge:Cambridge University Press, 2009.

Turvey, B., Forensic Fraud: Evaluating Law Enforcement and Forensic Science Cultures in the Context of Examiner Misconduct . Massachussetts: Academic Press, 2013.

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5 Essays About Corruption

Internationally, there is no legal definition of corruption, but it includes bribery, illegal profit, abuse of power, embezzlement, and more. Corrupt activities are illegal, so they are discreet and done in secrecy. Depending on how deep the corruption goes, there may be many people aware of what’s going on, but they choose to do nothing because they’ve been bribed or they’re afraid of retaliation. Any system can become corrupt. Here are five essays that explore where corruption exists, its effects, and how it can be addressed.

Learn more about anti-corruption in a free course .

Corruption in Global Health: The Open Secret

Dr. Patricia J. Garcia The Lancet (2019)

In this published lecture, Dr. Garcia uses her experience as a researcher, public health worker, and Minister of Health to draw attention to corruption in health systems. She explores the extent of the problem, its origins, and what’s happening in the present day. Additional topics include ideas on how to address the problem and why players like policymakers and researchers need to think about corruption as a disease. Dr. Garcia states that corruption is one of the most significant barriers to global universal health coverage.

Dr. Garcia is the former Minister of Health of Peru and a leader in global health. She also works as a professor and researcher/trainer in global health, STI/HIV, HPV, medical informatics, and reproductive health. She’s the first Peruvian to be appointed as a member to the United States National Academy of Medicine

‘Are women leaders less corrupt? No, but they shake things up”

Stella Dawson Reuters (2012)

This piece takes a closer look at the idea that more women in power will mean less corruption. Reality is more complicated than that. Women are not less vulnerable to corruption in terms of their resistance to greed, but there is a link between more female politicians and less corruption. The reason appears to be that women are simply more likely to achieve more power in democratic, open systems that are less tolerant of corruption. A better gender balance also means more effective problem-solving. This piece goes on to give some examples of lower corruption in systems with more women and the complexities. While this particular essay is old, newer research still supports that more women in power is linked to better ethics and lower corruption levels into systems, though women are not inherently less corrupt.

Stella Dawson left Reuters in 2015, where she worked as a global editor for economics and markets. At the Thomson Reuters Foundation and 100Reporters, she headed a network of reporters focusing on corruption issues. Dawson has been featured as a commentator for BBC, CNB, C-Span, and public radio.

“Transparency isn’t the solution to corruption – here’s why”

David Riverios Garcia One Young World

Many believe that corruption can be solved with transparency, but in this piece, Garcia explains why that isn’t the case. He writes that governments have exploited new technology (like open data platforms and government-monitoring acts) to appear like they care about corruption, but, in Garcia’s words, “transparency means nothing without accountability.” Garcia focuses on corruption in Latin America, including Paraguay where Garcia is originally from. He describes his background as a young anti-corruption activist, what he’s learned, and what he considers the real solution to corruption.

At the time of this essay’s publication, David Riverios Garcia was an Open Young World Ambassador. He ran a large-scale anti-corruption campaign (reAccion Paraguay), stopping corruption among local high school authorities. He’s also worked on poverty relief and education reform. The Ministry of Education recognized him for his achievements and in 2009, he was selected by the US Department of State as one of 10 Paraguayan Youth Ambassadors.

“What the World Could Teach America About Policing”

Yasmeen Serhan The Atlantic (2020)

The American police system has faced significant challenges with public trust for decades. In 2020, those issues have erupted and the country is at a tipping point. Corruption is rampant through the system. What can be done? In this piece, the author gives examples of how other countries have managed reform. These reforms include first dismantling the existing system, then providing better training. Once that system is off the ground, there needs to be oversight. Looking at other places in the world that have successfully made radical changes is essential for real change in the United States.

Atlantic staff writer Yasmeen Serhan is based in London.

“$2.6 Trillion Is Lost to Corruption Every Year — And It Hurts the Poor the Most”

Joe McCarthy Global Citizen (2018)

This short piece is a good introduction to just how significant the effects of corruption are. Schools, hospitals, and other essential services suffer, while the poorest and most vulnerable society carry the heaviest burdens. Because of corruption, these services don’t get the funding they need. Cycles of corruption erode citizens’ trust in systems and powerful government entities. What can be done to end the cycle?

Joe McCarthy is a staff writer for Global Citizen. He writes about global events and environmental issues.

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About the author, emmaline soken-huberty.

Emmaline Soken-Huberty is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon. She started to become interested in human rights while attending college, eventually getting a concentration in human rights and humanitarianism. LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and climate change are of special concern to her. In her spare time, she can be found reading or enjoying Oregon’s natural beauty with her husband and dog.

Essay on Corruption

Updated February 14, 2023

Corruption is the misuse of public or private resources for personal gain. It is a widespread problem affecting governments, businesses, and individuals worldwide. In this essay on corruption you get all the information about corruption and how it was dangerous to our life. Corruption can take many forms, such as bribery, extortion, cronyism, nepotism, fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. It can lead to economic stagnation, inequality, and political instability and erode trust in institutions.

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The consequences of corruption can be devastating, particularly in developing countries. It can prevent economic growth, entrench poverty, and weaken the rule of law. It can also lead to environmental degradation and human rights abuses.

Combating corruptions requires a comprehensive approach that strengthens the rule of law, improves public sector transparency and accountability, and creates a more equitable society. Governments and institutions can enact legislation and policies to reduce corruption, such as anti-corruption laws, public procurement rules, and whistleblower protections. Civil society and citizens can also play an important role by engaging in advocacy, monitoring public officials, and reporting corruption.

Causes of Corruption

It occurs when individuals or organizations misuse their power or influence for private gain. It can take many forms, from bribery and embezzlement to fraud and extortion. In this essay on corruption or in real life you got opportunity to stop someone from doing it you have to do it for not only  yourself but also for others who affected by corruption. It undermines the rule of law, erodes trust in government, and hinders economic growth and development. It can also lead to instability, poverty, and inequality.

Multiple factors cause corruption, but the most common causes are:

• Weak governance systems.
• Political and economic instability.
• Lack of transparency and accountability.
• Lack of access to resources.

Poor governance systems and lack of accountability allow corrupt actors to take advantage of the system and gain access to resources that should be available to everyone. Political and economic instability can also create the conditions for corruption to thrive. In countries where corruption is rampant, citizens lack access to essential services, and political and economic freedoms are limited.

In addition to these factors, the cause of corruption can also be a lack of education and awareness, weak legal frameworks and enforcement, and incentives for corrupt behavior. Failure to enforce laws properly results in corrupt individuals taking advantage of the system and engaging in corrupt behavior without facing significant consequences. Finally, it is also the result of a culture of impunity, where unscrupulous actors are not held accountable for their actions.

It is an illegal practice in which individuals or businesses use their influence to gain an unfair advantage for themselves or others. It can take many forms, such as bribery, extortion, nepotism, cronyism, fraud, money laundering, embezzlement, and misappropriation of funds. It often occurs through the abuse of power and authority involving public and private entities. Bribery is a common form of corruption involving offering money or other forms of incentive in exchange for a particular favor or service. Other forms of it include:

• Extortion is the use of threats or coercion to obtain money or favors.
• Nepotism is the awarding of jobs and promotions based on family relationships.
• Cronyism, which is the favoring of friends and associates.
• Fraud is the intentional misrepresentation of facts.
• Money laundering is the concealment of illegally obtained funds.
• Embezzlement is the misappropriation of funds.
• Misuse of funds, which is the unauthorized use of funds.

In all cases, corruption is a severe violation of the law, and those found guilty of such practices can be subject to criminal penalties.

• It involves a combination of tactics and strategies to reduce the risk of corruption and improve public trust. It includes measures that promote transparency, integrity, and accountability, as well as those that reduce the opportunities for corruption.
• Firstly, corruption prevention requires a strong and effective legal framework. It includes laws, regulations, and policies that are enforced by an independent and impartial judiciary. These laws must strive to address all types of corrupt activities, including bribery, embezzlement, and conflicts of interest. Its legal framework should also create solid sanctions for those who violate it.
• Secondly, corruption prevention also requires strong institutions and systems of checks and balances. It includes establishing independent anti-corruption bodies to monitor and investigate cases of suspected corruption. These bodies must be able to operate independently and have the power to impose sanctions on those found guilty of corruption.
• Thirdly, corruption prevention requires a culture of integrity. It should include promoting values such as honesty, accountability, and transparency. We should incorporate these values in all levels of society, from the highest levels of government to the smallest businesses. Society should develop educational and training programs to help people understand the consequences of engaging in corrupt activities.
• Fourthly, corruption prevention requires robust mechanisms of public oversight and participation. It includes the establishment of whistleblower protection laws and the promotion of public access to information. It will help citizens identify and report any corruptions they may encounter.
• Finally, it requires an effective system of monitoring and enforcement. It should include regular audits and inspections to ensure everyone follows the proper procedure. It also provides for the prosecution of those found guilty of corruption.
• By implementing these measures, governments and organizations can effectively reduce the risk of corruption and maintain public trust.

It is an endemic problem in many countries worldwide, and it can have profound implications for individuals and societies. It can lead to various adverse outcomes, such as economic stagnation, political instability, and social injustice. In this essay on Corruption you got all the useful information about corruption and how to stop it. To combat corruption, governments must take a multi-faceted approach that includes strengthening the rule of law, creating more transparent systems of governance, and increasing public awareness of the issue. Additionally, individuals must take responsibility for their actions and avoid corrupt practices. Only with a concerted effort from both government and citizens can we address the corruption problem.

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Corruption Essay | Essay on Corruption for Students and Children in English

February 14, 2024 by Prasanna

Corruption Essay:  A form of dishonesty or criminal offense undertaken by a person or organization entrusted with a power of authority is known as corruption. Corruption is practiced to abuse power for one’s gain or to acquire illicit benefit.

Corruption may include many activities, such as embezzlement or bribery. However, it may also include practices that are legal in many countries. Corruption is evil, decays trust, and showcases the dishonesty of the person in authority.

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long and Short Essays on Corruption for Students and Kids in English

We provide students with essay samples on a long essay of 500 words and a short essay of 150 words on the topic of corruption for reference.

Long Essay on Corruption 500 Words in English

Long Essay on Corruption is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power by a person or organization for personal gain. It is an act of dishonesty and a criminal offense. An act of corruption includes the exploitation of the rights and privileges of others. Activities like bribery and embezzlement are primarily included in the act of corruption.

Corruption can take place in ways. People in a position of authority are susceptible to corruption. Corruption reflects the greedy and selfish behavior of the person in authority. Bribery is the most common way of corruption. Bribery is the act of improper use of gifts and favors in exchange for the person’s gain. There are various ways in which people in authority accept ‘favours.’

Favors may include offers of huge amounts of money, materialistic gifts, company shares, entertainment, employment, sexual favors, and political benefits. Personal favor may also be a person’s preferential behavior overlooking crime or dishonesty. Embezzlement refers to an act of withholding of assets to prevent them mainly for theft. It is carried out by one or more individuals who are in charge of the asset. Embezzlement is typically a type of financial fraud.

A global form of corruption is graft – which is the illegal use of a politician’s authority for their gain. Misguiding the funds of the public is a popular way of grafting for the benefit of politicians. Extortion is another method in which corruption is practiced, which refers to obtaining money and property service illegally. This obtainment takes place by pressurization from an organization or individual. Extortion is similar to an act of blackmail.

Nepotism and favoritism is an old form of corruption that is still practiced. In this process, the person in authority chooses or favors the individual who will be of personal gain, or the individual offers something in exchange for the favor. Preferring a friend or relative in the job is an act of favoritism. This is a very unfair practice for the people who deserve recognition and appreciation and are not given the opportunity. Another method of corruption I the abuse of discretion in which a person’s power or authority is misused, such as a judge unjustly discriminating the case of a criminal. Influence peddling is another method of corruption. It refers to illegally using one’s influence with any authorized individual or the government. This practice takes place to obtain favor or preferential treatment.

Corruption weakens trust, hampers economic development, erodes democracy, and further worsens pre-existing conditions like poverty, inequality, environmental crisis, and social division. Corruption can be prevented even if not stopped. Tough laws are very important for the prevention of corruption. Guilty individuals should be given strict punishment, and the laws should be efficient and quickly implemented.

The government must ensure that the inflow is kept low. Due to accelerating prices, many people feel that their income is low, this increases corruption among the masses. One important way of preventing corruption is by offering a better salary. However, these are just reasons. Anyone determined to stay loyal to their jobs and they will not practice corruption no matter how many opportunities they are given.

Short Essay on Corruption 150 Words in English

Short Essay on Corruption is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Corruption is dishonest behavior practiced by those who are in authority. It is the misuse of entrusted power for private gain. Corruption can happen anywhere – in businesses, offices, courts, media, and even civil society. Corruption can involve anyone – from government officials, politicians, public servants to business holders, or public members.

Exposing corruption and holding the corrupt accountable can only take place how corruption works, and the systems enable it is understood.

Corruption happens in the shadows away from everyone’s notice. Often professionals like lawyers, bankers, accountants, real estate agents, anonymous shell companies, and opaque financial systems allow corruption to flourish and hide illicit wealth.

Corruption can occur on different scales, ranging from small favors between a small number of people to acts of corruption that affect the government on a large scale. Corruption has become prevalent and a part of everyday life in society.

10 Lines on Corruption in English

• Corruption is a crime, and everyone should take proper steps in fighting against it.
• In India, corruption lies at every system level, in both the private and public sectors.
• Corruption has grown to such a level that it has given rise to criminal activities.
• According to the World Bank, only 40% of the grains intended for the poor reaches them.
• A great tool in fighting corruption is the Right to Information at every level.
• Unless strict steps are taken, corruption cannot be removed from India.
• A survey showed that 92% of Indians had paid a bribe to a government official to speed up or get the job done at some point in their life.
• Corruption is one of the most serious difficulties in the path of the constant growth of the country.
• Corruption is unfair and unethical means of earning benefits.
• Corruption directly affects the growth of a country.

FAQ’s on Corruption Essay

Question 1.  Which is the most corrupt country in the world?

Answer: The most corrupt country in the world is Somalia, followed by Sudan and Syria.

Question 2.  Which is the least corrupt country in the world?

Answer: As per the corruption index table, Denmark is the least corrupt country in the world.

Question 3.  What is one of the main causes of corruption?

Answer: The greediness of people in an authorizing position is one of the main causes of corruption.

Question 4.  Talk about corruption in India.

Answer: According to the Forbes list of the five most corrupt countries in Asia released in 2017, India ranks top. India has a bribery rate of 69%.

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Corruption in India

• 06 Oct 2023
• 20 min read
• GS Paper - 4
• GS Paper - 2
• Transparency & Accountability
• Ethics and Human Interface
• Ethics in Human Actions
• Ethics in Private & Public Relationships

For Prelims: Corruption Perception Index , Transparency International , Democracy , Corruption

For Mains:  Transparency & Accountability in Governance,Common Causes of Corruption and its Prevention in India.

What is the Context?

The Prime Minister of India, in his 76 th Independence Day address, targeted the twin challenges of corruption and nepotism and raised the urgent need to curb them . Also, Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2023 was released by Transparency International.

• Overall, the index shows that control of corruption has stagnated or worsened in most countries over the last decade. India Corruption Perceptions Index was 40 index points in 2023.

What is Corruption?

Corruption is dishonest behaviour by those in positions of power . It starts with the tendency of using public office for some personal benefit.

• Moreover, it is unfortunate that corruption has, for many, become a matter of habit. It is so deeply entrenched that corruption is now considered a social norm. Hence, corruption implies the failure of ethics.

What are the Reasons Behind Corruption in India?

• L ack of Transparency : A lack of transparency in government processes, decision-making, and public administration provides fertile ground for corrupt practices. When actions and decisions are shielded from public scrutiny, officials may engage in corrupt activities with reduced fear of exposure.
• A perception of impunity due to the inadequate punishment of corrupt individuals can encourage further corruption. When individuals believe they can get away with corrupt practices, they are more likely to engage in them.
• Low Salaries and Incentives: Public officials, especially those in lower-ranking positions, are sometimes paid low salaries. This can make them more susceptible to bribery and other corrupt practices, as they may see corruption as a means to supplement their income.
• India's complex economic environment, which involves various licences, permits, and approvals, can create opportunities for corruption. Businesses may resort to bribery to navigate this environment.
• Political Interference: Political interference in administrative matters can compromise the autonomy of government institutions. Political leaders may pressure officials to engage in corrupt activities for personal or party gain.
• Cultural Factors: There can be a cultural acceptance of corrupt behaviour in certain contexts, which perpetuates corruption. The notion that "everyone does it" can lead individuals to engage in corruption without feeling morally compromised.
• Lack of Whistleblower Protection: Inadequate protection for whistleblowers can deter individuals from reporting corruption. The fear of retaliation can silence potential whistleblowers and allow corruption to thrive.
• Social Inequality: Social and economic disparities can contribute to corruption, as individuals with wealth and power may use their influence to secure preferential treatment and engage in corrupt practices without repercussions.

What are the Reasons for the Prevalence of Corruption in Civil Services?

• Politicisation of Civil Services: When civil service positions are used as rewards for political support or swapped for bribes , the opportunities for high levels of corruption increase significantly.
• Lower Wages: Lowering wages for civil servants compared to those in the private sector. Certain employees may resort to taking bribes in order to compensate for the difference in wages.
• Administrative Delays: Delays in the clearance of files are the root cause of corruption as common citizens are coerced to grease the palm of erring officials and authorities for expedited clearance of the files.
• Colonial Legacy of Unchallenged Authority: In a society which worships power, it is easy for public officials to deviate from ethical conduct.
• Weak Enforcement of Law: Various laws have been made to curb the evil of corruption but their weak enforcement has acted as a hindrance in curbing corruption .

What can be the Impact of Corruption?

• To demand quality, one might need to pay for it. This is seen in many areas like municipality, electricity, distribution of relief funds, etc.
• A crime may be proved as a benefit of the doubt due to a lack of evidence or even the evidence erased.
• These low-quality services are all done to save money by the contractors and the officials who are involved.
• These people sanction the funds for research to those investigators who are ready to bribe them.
• Disregard for Officials: People start disregarding the officials involved in corruption and also the administrative set up which creates distrust in the system.
• Lack of Respect for Government: Top brass leaders of the nation like the President or Prime Ministers lose respect among the public. Respect is the main criteria in social life.
• Lack of Faith and Trust in Governments: People vote for a leader based on their faith in him/ her, but if leaders are found to be involved in corruption, people lose faith in them and may not vote next time.
• Aversion for Joining the Posts Linked to Corruption : Sincere, honest, and hardworking people develop an aversion for the particular posts deemed corrupt.
• A Decrease in Foreign Investment : Corruption in government bodies has led to many foreign investments going back from developing countries.
• This leads to delays in investments, the starting of industries, and also growth.
• Due to lack of proper roads, water, and electricity, the companies do not wish to start up there, which hinders the economic progress of that region.

Image: Changes in Levels of Corruption In India and Other Countries as per the Corruption Perceptions Index over the past decade.

What are the Legal and Regulatory Frameworks for Fighting Corruption in India?

• Amendment of 2018 criminalised both bribe-taking by public servants as well as bribe-giving by any person.
• Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 aims to prevent instances of money laundering and prohibits use of the 'proceeds of crime' in India.
• The Companies Act, 2013 provides for corporate governance and prevention of corruption and fraud in the corporate sector. The term 'fraud' has been given a broad definition and is a criminal offence under the Companies Act.
• The Indian Penal Code, 1860 sets out provisions which can be interpreted to cover bribery and fraud matters, including offences relating to criminal breach of trust and cheating.
• The  Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 the Act precludes the person who acquired the property in the name of another person from claiming it as his own.
• They perform the function of an "ombudsman” and inquire into allegations of corruption against certain public functionaries and for related matters.
• Central Vigilance Commission: Its mandate is to oversee the vigilance administration and to advise and assist the executive in matters relating to corruption.
• Amendments in 1964: The definition of ‘Public Servant’ under the IPC was expanded. The definition of ‘criminal misconduct’ was expanded and possession of assets disproportionate to the known sources of income of a public servant was made an offence.

What is the Importance of Ethics in Preventing Corruption?

• Establishing Moral Boundaries: Ethical principles provide a framework for defining what is right and wrong. In the context of corruption, ethics set clear boundaries that distinguish acceptable behaviour from unethical or corrupt conduct.
• Promoting Accountability: Ethics demand that individuals take responsibility for their actions and decisions. When people are guided by ethical principles, they are more likely to be transparent and accountable for their actions, reducing the likelihood of engaging in corrupt behaviour that could harm others.
• Fostering Transparency: Transparency is a core ethical principle. Ethical organisations and individuals are more likely to operate openly and honestly, making it difficult for corruption to thrive in an environment where actions and decisions are subject to scrutiny.
• Building Trust: Trust is a cornerstone of ethical behaviour. When individuals and institutions are perceived as trustworthy, they are less likely to engage in or tolerate corruption. A high level of trust in society reduces the temptation for corruption.
• Encouraging Civic Virtue: Ethical values promote civic virtue, which encourages individuals to act in the best interest of society rather than pursuing personal gain at the expense of others. Civic virtue is a powerful deterrent to corruption.
• Supporting Rule of Law: Ethical behaviour upholds the rule of law and respect for legal and regulatory frameworks. Corrupt practices often involve circumventing or violating the law, and adherence to ethics reinforces respect for legal norms.
• Whistleblower Protection : Ethical organisations and governments prioritise protecting whistleblowers who report corruption. Ethical values encourage reporting unethical behaviour, which is vital for uncovering and addressing corruption.
• Global Reputation: On an international scale, ethical behaviour is essential for a nation's reputation. Countries known for ethical governance and low corruption levels are more attractive to foreign investment and collaboration.
• Long-Term Sustainability : Corrupt practices often provide short-term gains but can lead to long-term harm. Ethical behaviour is essential for the sustainable development and prosperity of societies.

What are Nolan Committee Recommendations on Standards in Public Life and Prevention of Corruption?

Nolan Committee in 1995 in United Kingdom outlined Seven Ethical and Moral values to be incorporated by the Public functionaries, Officials, Civil Servants, Bureaucrats, Civil Society and Citizens in order to weed out corruption:

• Selflessness: Holders of public office should take decisions solely in terms of public interest.
• Integrity: Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organizations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties.
• Objectivity: In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.
• Accountability: Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
• Openness: Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.
• Honesty: Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.
• Leadership: Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

What are the Recommendations of the Second ARC to Tackle Corruption?

The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2nd ARC), an advisory body in India, made several comprehensive recommendations to address the issue of corruption and improve the integrity and efficiency of the public administration. These recommendations aim to prevent corruption and enhance transparency and accountability in government operations. Here are some of the key recommendations made by the 2nd ARC:

• Whistleblower Protection Act, 2014: The 2nd ARC recommended amendments to the Whistleblowers Protection Act to enhance protection and incentives for whistleblowers. This includes safeguarding them from harassment and providing financial rewards.
• Central Vigilance Commission (CVC): The 2 nd ARC recommended strengthening the CVC's role in preventing and combating corruption by giving it more independence, resources, and authority.
• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI): The commission suggested measures to ensure the CBI's autonomy and effectiveness in handling corruption cases.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The 2 nd ARC recommended the development of clear SOPs for government processes and services to minimise the discretionary powers of officials. This reduces the scope for corruption and arbitrary decision-making.
• Use of Technology: Leveraging technology and e-governance can reduce human interface and discretion in government transactions. The commission encouraged the adoption of electronic methods to reduce corruption opportunities.
• Police Accountability: The commission highlighted the need for comprehensive police reforms to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies. This includes measures to increase transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the police force.
• Community Policing: Promoting community policing can build trust between the police and the public, reducing opportunities for corruption and abuse of power.
• Code of Ethics: The commission recommended the development of a code of ethics for public officials and employees to promote ethical behaviour.
• Citizen Charters: Encouraging government departments to adopt citizen charters can enhance accountability and improve public service delivery.
• Media and Education: The commission suggested using media and educational institutions to create awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption and the importance of ethical conduct.
• Parliamentary Committees: Strengthening the role of parliamentary committees in scrutinising government operations and expenditure can help detect and prevent corruption.
• Digital Transformation: The 2 nd ARC recommended a comprehensive digital transformation of government processes to reduce human intervention and opportunities for corruption.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Q1. With reference to the ‘Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 (PBPT Act)’, consider the following statements: (2017)

• A property transaction is not treated as a benami transaction if the owner of the property is not aware of the transaction.
• Properties held benami are liable for confiscation by the Government.
• The Act provides for three authorities for investigations but does not provide for any appellate mechanism.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only

Q.2 Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at national and international levels. (2021)

Essay on Corruption 1000+ Words

Corruption is a grave issue that has plagued India for many years, hindering its progress and development. This essay will argue that corruption in India is a formidable challenge, undermining trust in institutions, siphoning resources away from essential services, and impeding the nation’s growth. We will delve into the causes and consequences of corruption, as well as potential solutions to address this pressing problem.

The Prevalence of Corruption

Corruption in India is alarmingly prevalent, with numerous cases reported at various levels of government and society. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, India consistently ranks low, indicating a high level of perceived corruption. This issue affects citizens from all walks of life.

Causes of Corruption

Corruption in India has deep-rooted causes, including the lack of transparency, bureaucratic red tape, and political influence. Experts opine that complex regulations and excessive discretion in decision-making provide fertile ground for corrupt practices. Additionally, poverty and low wages in some sectors may drive individuals to engage in corruption for financial gain.

Economic Impact

Corruption has a detrimental economic impact on India. Funds allocated for public projects and welfare schemes often get siphoned off through corrupt practices. This not only hampers the country’s economic growth but also perpetuates poverty and inequality, as resources meant for the marginalized are diverted.

Erosion of Trust in Institutions

Widespread corruption erodes trust in public institutions, including the government and the judiciary. When citizens lose faith in these institutions, it weakens the democratic fabric of the nation. People become disillusioned with the idea of justice and equitable governance.

Social Consequences

Corruption has severe social consequences, as it can lead to a breakdown of ethical values and moral degradation. When corruption becomes the norm, society suffers from a loss of integrity, hindering the nation’s social progress.

Impediment to Foreign Investment

Foreign investors may be hesitant to invest in a country known for its corruption. The perception of corruption can deter foreign investment, limiting opportunities for economic growth and job creation. This hinders India’s potential as a global economic player.

Legal Measures and Accountability

Efforts have been made to combat corruption through legal measures and accountability. Initiatives such as the Right to Information Act and the establishment of anti-corruption bodies like the Central Vigilance Commission aim to increase transparency and hold corrupt individuals accountable.

Public Awareness and Education

Educating the public about the negative consequences of corruption is crucial. Awareness campaigns and educational programs can empower citizens to resist corruption and report unethical practices.

Strengthening Institutions

To address corruption effectively, institutions must be strengthened. This includes reforms in the legal and judicial systems, as well as improvements in administrative processes to reduce bureaucratic red tape.

Encouraging Ethical Leadership

Promoting ethical leadership is vital to combat corruption. Leaders at all levels of government and society must lead by example, demonstrating integrity and accountability.

Conclusion of Essay on Corruption

In conclusion, corruption in India is a pressing issue that poses significant challenges to the nation’s progress and prosperity. It erodes trust in institutions, hampers economic growth, and has far-reaching social consequences. While legal measures and accountability mechanisms have been put in place, addressing corruption requires a collective effort. Public awareness, education, and strengthening institutions are essential steps toward curbing corruption in India. As a nation, India must unite to combat corruption, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability for a brighter future.

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Corruption as a Problem in Public Administration

Introduction, background of the issue, importance of the issue, discussion of possible solutions, disciplinary codes and codes of ethics, conflict of interest regulations and financial disclosure, the use of e-government, recommendation for the solution.

Corruption in public administration is one of the many problems that lead to inequalities and injustice in modern society. There exist numerous definitions that attempt to present the concepts of this term. For example, Cordis and Milyo (2016) admit that “it may be defined as the misuse of public office for private gain or more broadly as an abuse of public trust” (p. 129). Park and Kim (2019) also state that the term refers to actions of public officials to further their own or others’ interests in exchange for benefits. The two definitions indicate that corruption is an example of misconduct, meaning that it is necessary to take specific steps to address the issue.

Numerous scholarly articles analyze the question of how it is possible to combat corruption in public administration. The studies by Ionescu (2016), Kossow et al. (2017), Irfan (2017), Nam (2018), Park and Kim (2019), and Basyal et al. (2018) assess the effectiveness of the Internet and e-governance in combating corruption. Simultaneously, Meyer-Sahling and Mikkelsen (2020) consider how the use of disciplinary codes and codes of ethics is helpful in this case. Furthermore, Mungiu-Pippidi and Dadašov (2017) draw attention to a set of anti-corruption measures, including financial disclosure, conflict of interest regulation, restrictive rules on party finance, and others. This scientific evidence demonstrates that many researchers make efforts to find ways to eliminate corruption in public administration.

The information above shapes the paper’s purpose that manifests itself in analyzing the current ways to address corruption in public administration and finding the most effective option. This objective has resulted in a hypothesis that e-governance and the use of the Internet can decrease the prevalence of corruption in a public sphere. In an attempt to prove this thought, an approach of literature review has been undertaken. This research will have practical implications because its results will show what specific measures are necessary to combat corruption activities. The remaining paper will present background information on the issue, a detailed presentation of its importance, a discussion of possible solutions, and the recommendation for the solution choice.

The issue of corruption has a long history because it was familiar to people of different epochs. For example, Terence, the Latin playwright, admitted that the more laws the republic had, the higher the corruption rate there was (Mungiu-Pippidi & Dadašov, 2017). As for the modern era, different factors can be prerequisites of corruption. According to Park and Kim (2019), they are the presence or absence of punishment for corruptive acts, level of democracy, sector pay, individual education level, and others. In addition to that, the decision of whether to engage in corruption depends on what public officials’ colleagues think of the issue (Gorsira et al., 2018). This information makes it possible to conclude that corruption is in human nature.

The problem is of universal scope because both developed and developing nations suffer from corruption. Thus, Irfan (2017) analyzes the ways to combat this issue in Sri Lanka, while the study by Mungiu-Pippidi and Dadašov (2017) assesses the prevalence of corruptive behaviors in all world countries. Figure 1 by Mungiu-Pippidi and Dadašov (2017) stipulates that “the more restrictions a country has on political financing, the more corrupt it is” (p. 392). This fact supports Terence’s idea that has been described above.

As has been mentioned above, addressing corruption in public administration is a popular topic of scholarly articles. Numerous studies acknowledge this issue and offer possible solutions to it. Most of these scientific works have successfully investigated the problem because they have identified a connection between the implementation of preventive measures and corruption rates. However, there is a significant gap in this research body. It refers to the fact that all the articles analyze the effectiveness of separate measures, and no study has attempted to compare all the existing options and find the most suitable solution. That is why the given work tries to address this gap and offer an effective solution to the problem under consideration.

Even though it has been mentioned that corruption is a universal problem, the issue of to what extent various countries suffer from it remains unclear. Thus, the given section is going to present this information. On the one hand, Irfan (2017) presents an increasing volume of corruptive cases in Sri Lanka, while Meyer-Sahling and Mikkelsen (2020) consider the growing burden of this issue in Poland. Thus, these two articles prove that developing countries are subject to corruption. On the other hand, developed nations also fail to feel protected from the problem, and the situation in the United States supports this claim. Figure 2 by Cordis and Milyo (2016) reveals the number of confirmed corruption cases in the US over a 40-year period. Despite a significant improvement in the 1990s, the figure demonstrates an evident upward tendency of corruption in the United States. The figure represents the number of corruptive cases made by various agencies. The inconsistency between the results is an interesting anomaly, but its nature is not within the scope of this research.

Irrespective of a country where corruption cases occur and its economic status, the phenomenon under consideration is destructive and leads to adverse consequences. Firstly, Park and Kim (2019) admit that this phenomenon results in lower private investment, which decreases the economic growth of a nation. Secondly, corruption leads to government inefficiencies concerning procurement processes (Park & Kim, 2019). It means that government activity becomes unfair, which makes it challenging to achieve positive outcomes for the nation. Thirdly, the two examples above result in the fact that people do not trust the government. Finally, Park and Kim (2019) explain that the presence of corruption in public administration makes people want to break the rules, which can lead to social unrest. The information above is an evident sign that specific and compelling measures are necessary to address corruption and relieve nations from its adverse consequences.

Since the details above have demonstrated that corruption in public administration is a universal issue that implies many adverse consequences, there is no doubt that specific measures to address the problem are required. Now, there is an array of available solutions, and it is necessary to review their specifics. That is why the following information will present a synthesis of possible options, which is essential to identify whether it is reasonable to use any of them.

Since corruption is an example of misconduct, this behavior should imply a punishment. In some cases, appropriate sanctions that are predetermined by disciplinary codes can be useful in preventing corruption. According to Meyer-Sahling and Mikkelsen (2020), these documents determine punitive measures that should be applied to public officials who have committed wrongdoing. They are said to work because the implied punishment can be an effective stimulus for individuals to avoid engaging in corruption. However, numerous scientific studies demonstrate that disciplinary codes may not suffice to address the issue under analysis successfully. Thus, Meyer-Sahling and Mikkelsen (2020) considered the impact of these documents on Polish public officials and failed to identify significant statistical evidence that would reveal the benefits of disciplinary codes. It is so because a desire to obtain corruption benefits is higher than the fear of being punished. Thus, the researchers conclude that this solution cannot make a difference when used in isolation.

Codes of ethics are also documents that contribute to the creation of an ethical and productive environment in the workplace, but they address the issue from a different side. As opposed to disciplinary codes, codes of ethics explain corporate values and behavioral standards. These documents are used to increase officials’ morale with the help of motivation and ethical principles (Meyer-Sahling & Mikkelsen, 2020). In other words, codes of ethics are present to remind civil servants about the sinful nature of corruption, which tends to minimize this behavior. However, Meyer-Sahling and Mikkelsen (2020) explain that this measure is unlikely to result in significant benefits. It means that emphasizing values is not sufficient to make individuals refrain from following corruptive behaviors.

It can be necessary to address public officials’ scope of responsibility to fight corruption. It refers to the necessity to minimize the occurrence of conflict of interest situations. According to Mungiu-Pippidi and Dadašov (2017), these cases occur when a public servant is in a position when their decision can lead to personal benefits. It means that appropriate restrictions are necessary to “prohibit public officials from participating in any number of activities that might be seen to compromise their impartiality” (Mungiu-Pippidi & Dadašov, 2017, p. 393). That is why there exist numerous provisions that regulate public officials’ behavior in the spheres of owning a private firm, accepting gifts, holding government contracts, and others. This measure’s effect is insignificant because public servants can overcome these regulations by involving third parties in their corruptive actions.

At the same time, financial disclosure regulations are another possible solution. Mungiu-Pippidi and Dadašov (2017) explain that this measure obliges public servants to “disclose their income, assets and financial interests to prevent or detect any private gains they might eventually make” (p. 394). The rationale behind this claim is that individuals will refrain from engaging in corruptive activities because they will not be able to explain the origins of their richness. However, it is also impossible to mention that this solution has the potential to result in significant benefits. It relates to the fact that individuals can find ways of overcoming the regulations under consideration. For example, it is a typical case when a corrupt official discloses their financial statement, and it does not have any suspicious information. It is so because this public servant’s relatives possess objects of luxury. This information denotes that the measures above are insufficient to reduce the incidence of corruption in public administration.

E-government is another possible solution to the issue under consideration. This term denotes that public officials use information and communication technologies (ICTs) to cope with routine activities. Since modern Internet capabilities are almost limitless, it is not a surprise that e-government is quite accessible now. Park and Kim (2019) indicate that the use of e-government leads to improved effectiveness, efficiency, and quality of government operations. That is why this strategy has the potential to address corruption in public administration.

Numerous examples can demonstrate how e-government can make a difference when it comes to public corruption. Firstly, e-government initiatives result in an online service application system (Park & Kim, 2019). It means that public officials do not have direct contact with applicants, which eliminates the environment that could promote corruptive actions. Secondly, procurement procedures can experience significant changes with the help of e-government. It relates to the introduction of an e-procurement system that can help monitor whether officials’ actions in the procurement sphere are just and fair (Park & Kim, 2019). Thirdly, e-government initiatives lead to the creation of an open government that is an effective measure to fight corruption. It is so because this phenomenon discloses government information regarding decision-making procedures, policy implementation, evaluation processes, and others (Park & Kim, 2019). This information denotes that e-government addresses various manifestations of public corruption to eliminate this behavior.

An array of scientific evidence can prove the effectiveness of e-government. For example, Park and Kim (2019) insist on the fact that this option leads to significantly decreased public corruption rates. Simultaneously, Ionecsu (2016) explains that volumes of corruptive activities reduce substantially in developing countries because of e-government. Irfan (2017) also adds that Sri Lanka experiences a reduced corruption rate because e-government initiatives have been implemented in the country. The two previous examples make it possible to conclude that the effect of e-government is of a limited scope since it is only positive for developing countries. This idea is supported by Basyal et al. (2018), who did not find any evidence that “e-government has a positive impact on corruption reduction” (p. 134). That is why it is necessary to identify whether this opposing point of view is accurate.

Further research reveals that e-government leads to the desired outcomes if additional conditions are present. On the one hand, the analysis of 154 countries has shown that e-governance is the most effective in countries with a stable and organized society (Kossow & Kukutschka, 2017). It means that this way of addressing corruption is useful in those countries that do not suffer from other social issues. On the other hand, Nam (2018) mentions that “national cultures characterized as having unequal power distribution and uncertainty avoidance have a decreased anti-corruption effect of e-government” (p. 273). This fact also demonstrates that e-government can result in essential benefits in those nations that do not have significant social problems.

Corruption is a significant problem in the modern world because it affects various life spheres. This phenomenon results in the fact that people with power misconduct or make wrongful decisions to obtain personal benefits. Corruption consequences imply reduced private investment, government inefficiencies, economic problems, social unrest, and others. That is why it is necessary to choose the most suitable solution to improve the situation.

According to the information above, it is possible to mention that e-government is a suitable option to address corruption in public administration. Firstly, it is so because many scientific articles prove the effectiveness of the given solutions under various conditions. Secondly, it has been shown that this strategy addresses the issue from multiple sides, which can contribute to better outcomes. However, these details do not mean that e-government is an error-free option to eliminate corruption or at least minimize its rates. Some scientific works also suggest that this strategy does not have the potential to reduce corruption. Such arguments are refuted by the fact that e-government results in benefits under particular conditions. It refers to the fact that a developed and organized society is a factor that can maximize the positive outcomes of using e-government to fight corruption. The final thought is that e-government can be sufficient to eliminate corruption from public administration when society is ready for this improvement.

Basyal, D. K., Poudyal, N., & Seo, J.-W. (2018). Does e-government reduce corruption? Evidence from a heterogeneous panel data model. Transforming Government: People, Process, and Policy, 12 (2), 134-154.

Cordis, A. S., & Milyo, J. (2016). Measuring public corruption in the United States: Evidence from administrative records of federal prosecutions. Public Integrity, 18 (2), 127-148.

Gorsira, M., Denkers, A., & Huisman, W. (2018). Both sides of the coin: Motives for corruption among public officials and business employees. Journal of Business Ethics, 151, 179-194.

Ionescu, L. (2016). E-government and social media as effective tools in controlling corruption in public administration. Economics, Management, and Financial Markets, (1), 66-72.

Irfan, M. I. M. (2017). The role of e-governance in administrative efficiency and combating corruption: Case of Sri Lanka. Global Journal of Management and Business Research, 17 (2-G). Web.

Kossow, N., & Kukutschka, R. M. B. (2017). Civil society and online connectivity: Controlling corruption on the net? Crime, Law, and Social Change, 68 (4), 459-476.

Meyer-Sahling, J.-H., & Mikkelsen, K. S. (2020). Codes of ethics, disciplinary codes, and the effectiveness of anti-corruption frameworks: Evidence from a survey of civil servants in Poland. Review of Public Personnel Administration. 

Mungiu-Pippidi, A., & Dadašov, R. (2017). When do anticorruption laws matter? The evidence on public integrity enabling contexts. Crime, Law, and Social Change, 68 (4), 387-402.

Nam, T. (2018). Examining the anti-corruption effect of e-government and the moderating effect of national culture: A cross-country study. Government Information Quarterly, 35 (2), 273-282.

Park, C. H., & Kim, K. (2019). E-government as an anti-corruption tool: Panel data analysis across countries. International Review of Administrative Sciences. 

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Speech on Corruption

• Updated on  
• Jun 2, 2023

Corruption is a problem that has hampered the growth of our country in not one but many ways. It is also one of the most common English speech topics for students . The idea behind giving this as a topic in a speech is to enlighten students on our country’s problems and how we can resolve them. Here, in this blog, we give you a sample speech on corruption, which will come in handy for you in the future.

This Blog Includes:

Introduction to corruption, examples of corruption, causes of corruption, how to fight corruption .

Must Read: Corruption in India Speech

Speaking Task: Speech on Corruption (5 minutes)

Good morning to one and all present here. It is rightly said that your speech only becomes well if your tongue says what your heart feels. So, here I am to talk about the current and worldwide ongoing issue and enlighten all of you with a speech on Corruption! 

In one aspect or the other, we all have come across the word ‘Corruption.’ According to political ideology’s definition, ‘Corruption is a form of dishonesty or criminal offence undertaken by a person or organization entrusted with a position of authority, to acquire illicit benefit or abuse power for one’s private gain.’ Seems lengthy and confusing, right? Most simply, corruption is dishonest behaviour practised by authorities such as managers or government officials. This is how people with power rule the world, thereby violating certain people’s rights and privileges. 

It is said that time changes everything.  But here it is, this dishonest act and the unsatisfying term haven’t changed for years on end. It is still prevalent. The main reason for corruption in India is the link between bureaucrats, politicians, and criminals.

Gone are the days when bribes were given when things were wrong. Presently, bribes are received to hide the right stuff. May it be a minor issue or a life-threatening one, a younger child or an adult man, a school-going boy to a working person everyone has seen and has fallen prey to corruption. These days, even if a person isn’t qualified enough for a public sector job, he can quickly get it by spending money and giving bribes to higher officials. 

Must Read: Essay on Labour Day

Well, what is a speech on corruption without some examples? So here are some things which you must have experienced at some point in your life. Have you ever applied for your or your child’s admission to a big reputed college? You can observe in a few of those colleges that if you aren’t eligible for admission, then a bribe is the door opener. Sounds pathetic right? But this is the sad truth these days. From getting admission to reputed colleges to being elected with numerous votes, everything unless more minor or more ways is induced with corruption.

But the most significant and worst type of corruption is Political Corruption. In legal terms, Political corruption or Mal Politics uses powers by government officials or their network contacts for illegitimate private gain. This type is the most concerning one as it erodes the fundamental value of the law that governs and regulates society creating a massive mess in the country as a whole.

Now you all might be thinking that this happens only in well-established and sophisticated cities, but that’s not the case. It occurs throughout India. Metropolitan cities, towns, and villages are all part of this evil game, and it is the common man who gets unnecessarily trapped in the dishonest strategies of this game. The heights of corruption have reached such an extent that strict law can also reduce but not abolish this corrupt mindset. 

Any speech on corruption can never be complete without looking at the causes of corruption. We often hear people saying, ‘Everything happens for a reason. This states that Everything happening around us is driven by a strong desire or motivation behind it. In the same way, corruption also has some hidden causes behind it. Enlisted are the causes of corruption:

• Greed of money
• Lack of values and ethics
• Lack of education
• High level of bureaucracy and inefficient administrative structure 
• Political instability
• Gender Inequality 

Now, when we have raked up this sensitive topic in my speech on corruption, I must bring to your notice certain measures to reduce this problem. “Every problem has a solution……But it depends whether you want to solve it or not”. It depends on us if we have to stand against this evil act or in support of it. People usually stay silent in such situations, but one must remember that mere silence leads to acceptance. We must unite together and try to reduce corruption. Enlisted are the various ways in which we can reduce corruption to a greater extent.

• People should start reporting cases of corruption without any delay.
• All the government, non-government, public, private, and educational should unite together and stand against corruption.
• The media and advertising sector should educate people against corruption regularly.
• We should provide students with additional courses to build better citizens for tomorrow.

To conclude, corruption is making life worse for the commoner. But, he is the only one who can raise his voice and bring change. We should start from ourselves and change our thinking of ‘Make a Change to that of ‘Be a change. So, let’s come together and stand in favour of the commoner and not corruption. Let’s decide to be loyal and valuable citizens of our country.

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14 comments

It’s really great.

Really very helpful and motivating and I understood this concept very clearly and I can now tell a speech anywhere on this topic ….thank you so much…

Happy to help, Jack!

Very nice work am really motivated to write myself.

Thank you for reading. You can also read: Speech on Indian Culture Importance of Friendship Speech Speech on Exam Stress

Am so happy for your assistance

Hello, We are glad to know that our blogs are able to help you out with your assignments, tasks and other activities. We would be highly obliged if you would have a look on some of our top searches: 1. https://leverageedu.com/blog/speech-writing/ 2. https://leverageedu.com/blog/asl-topics/ 3. https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-speech-topics/ 4. https://leverageedu.com/blog/generation-gap-speech/

it was a very very helpful speech it had all the things needed and made it look powerful and strong thank u so much

We are happy that you found the Speech on Corruption helpful. Here’s a list of other speeches that might help you!

https://leverageedu.com/blog/generation-gap-speech/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/speech-on-child-labour/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/women-empowerment-speech/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/speech-on-save-water/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/speech-on-right-to-education/

Thank you sir/madam for helping me with this speech.😀

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This is amazing, it helped me for our school’s speech Thank you so much for this!!

Hi, Thanks for your valuable feedback!

It was really helpful thanks a lot

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Essay on Corruption in English for Children and Students

Table of Contents

Essay on Corruption: Corruption is the use of power or position for personal gain. It can take many forms, from bribery and embezzlement to nepotism and cronyism. It can be found in both the public and private sectors, and its effects can be devastating to both individuals and society as a whole.

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Corruption refers to an act performed by an individual or a group, which seriously compromises the rights and privileges of someone else or the public in general. “Corruption” includes a significant number of illegal and immoral activities from different arenas of governance and administration. Corruption is not only limited to the government and its agencies, but, it also includes private businesses and organizations. Corruption severely hampers the growth and development of a society and a nation as a whole. A corrupt system makes people loose general trust in the government, resulting in an environment of fear and chaos.

Long and Short Essay on Corruption in India in English

We have provided below some Essay on Corruption of varying lengths in English for your information and knowledge.

These corruption essay have been written in simple and easy language so that you don’t face any difficulty in understanding the sentences.

The essay will give you an in depth analysis of Corruption and its effects on the society and the country.

You will also know the measures taken by the government to counter corruption and subdue its effects.

Essay on Corruption 100 words

Corruption is a poison which has been spread in the mind of wrong people of the society, community and country. It is the mistreatment of public resources just for getting some unfair advantage to fulfill little wish. It is concerned with the unnecessary and wrong use of both power and position by anyone whether in the government or non-government organization. It has affected the growth of the individual as we well as the nation and reduces income. It is a big reason of inequalities in the society and community. It affects the growth and development of the nation in all aspects like socially, economically and politically.

Essay on Corruption 150 words

Corruption is the misuse of public property, position, power and authority for fulfilling the selfish purposes to gain personal satisfactions. Corruption is the misuse of authority for personal gain of an individual or group. It is the unfair use of public power for some private advantages by breaking some rules and regulations made by government. Now a day, it has been spread deeply in the society and has become very strong because of its lots of roots. It is like a cancer which once generated cannot be ended without medicine and spreading its roots continuously.

One common form of corruption in our country is receiving cash money, through online transfer or in the form of costly gift etc. Some people wrongly uses someone else money for their own sake. Some people recruited in the government or non-government offices have been involved in the corruption and can do anything to fulfil their wishes.

The saying goes, “It’s a problem that affects everyone, from the least wealthy to the wealthiest. Corruption in India comes in different forms, like giving and taking bribes, stealing money, favoritism, and misusing public resources. The main reason for corruption in India is the absence of clear rules, responsibility, and a strong legal system.

Essay on Corruption 200 words

We all are well familiar of the corruption and as it is not a new phenomenon in our country. It has taken its roots so deeply in the people’s mind. It is a very common poison in the society since ancient time. It is available from the history time of the Mughal and Sultanate period. It is reaching to its new height. It has affected the mind of people to a great extent and become so common that wrong people can play with the public life. It is a type of greediness which corrupt human mind and destroy one’s humanity and naturalness.

Corruption is of different types which has been spread in every filed like education, sports, games, politics, etc. Because of the corruption, one does not understand his/her responsibilities at work place. Corruptions are like theft, dishonesty, wastage of public property, wastage of time unnecessarily, exploitation, scams, scandals, malpractice of responsibilities, etc are the various types of corruption. It has made its roots in both developing and well developed countries. We need to remove corruption from our society and country in order to get real freedom from the slavery. We all need to be loyal towards our responsibilities and strict for any type of greediness.

Essay on Corruption 250 words

Now-a-days, corruption is seen everywhere in the society just like an infectious disease. The great leaders of the India who have fought their whole life for removing corruption and other social issues completely from the society. It is the very shameful condition for us that even after losing various great lives, we are not able to understand our real responsibilities. Corruption has been spread in the common public lives, politics, central governments, state governments, businesses, industries, etc. It has not left any field. Corruption is increasing day by day instead of decreasing or steadying because of the continuous increase in the appetite of people for money, power, position and luxury.

We have forgotten the real responsibility of being a human just because of the money. We need to understand that money is not everything and it is not a stable thing. We cannot keep it forever to us, it can only give us greediness and corruption. We should give importance to the value based life and not money based life. It is true that we need lot of money to live a common life however it is not true that just for our selfishness and greediness; we should play someone’s life or money in some unfair ways.

Essay on Corruption 300 words

As we all know that corruption is very bad thing. It inhibits the individual growth as well as society and country growth and development. It is social evil which is playing humans body and mind socially, economically and intellectually. It is continuously making its roots so deeply because of the increasing human greediness towards money, power and position. Corruption is the misuse of authority, public position, natural or public resources, power, etc by someone to gain his/her personal gratifications. According to the sources, it has been identified that India ranks three in the highly corrupted countries.

Corruption is highly spread in the field of civil service, politics, business and other illegal fields. India is a famous country for its democracy but it is corruption which disturbs its democratic system. Politicians are highly responsible for all type of corruption in the country. We chose our leaders by having lots of expectations to them to lead our country in the right direction. In the starting they make us lots of promises however, just after the voting they forget all that and involve in corruption. We are sure that our India would be corruption free a day when our political leaders would be free of greediness and use their power, money, status and position in right direction to lead the country, not their own luxury and personal wishes.

We should select very honest and trustworthy leaders to lead our India just like our earlier Indian leaders such as Lal Bahadur Shastri, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, etc. Only such political leaders can reduce and finally end the corruption from India. Youths of the country should also need to be aware of all the reasons of corruption and get together to solve it in group. Increasing level of the corruption needs to take some heavy steps to get control over it.

Essay on Corruption 400 words

Corruption is the highly infectious social disease which has spread its roots to the mind of the bad people. No one take birth to do such type of bad activities in the society however some bad conditions of their life forced them to do so. Gradually they become habitual for all of these bad activities. However, people suffering from any problem, disease, etc should keep patience and trust on themselves and never do anything bad in life. As, one negative step of anyone may harm the lives of many people. We are not a single entity on this earth, there are many like us, so we should think a little about others and live life happily and peacefully with positive thoughts.

Now-a-days, lots of benefits are given by the government of India to the poor people on the basis of various rules and regulations to bring social awareness among common people as well as equality in the society. However, poor people are not getting benefited of those advantages given by the government as many officers doing corruption secretly in between the channel before reaching to the poor people. They are doing corruption against law for just fulfilling their own pockets with money.

There are many causes of corruption in the society. Now-a-days political leaders are making interest oriented programmes and policies instead of nation oriented programmes and policies. They are just wishing to be famous politician for completing their own interests instead of citizen’s interests and requirement. There is increasing level of change in the value system in the human mind as well as decreasing ethical qualities of human being. The level of trust, faith and honesty is decreasing which gives rise to the corruption.

The number of common people with increased tolerance power towards corruption is increasing. There is a lack of strong public forum in the society in order to oppose the corruption, widespread illiteracy in rural areas, poor economic infrastructure, etc are the reasons of endemic corruption in the public life. Low salaries norms of the government employees force them towards channel of corruption. Complex laws and procedures of the government distract common people to get any type of help from government. During election time, corruption become at its highest peak. Politicians always take support of poor and illiterate people by dreaming them big in future during their governance however nothing happens after win.

Essay on Corruption 500 words

Corruption has been spread like a disease all over the India as well as abroad. It has become one of the most speedily increasing social issues in the Indian society . It is generally initiated and promoted by the opportunistic leaders. They never think about the nation’s benefits and do lots of damage to the nation through their corruption even for their small advantage. They sell their country properties in the wrong hands and spread wrong beliefs about India in the people’s mind living in other countries.

They are spoiling the old traditions and cultures of India for their personal benefits. Now-a-days people who are working in right direction using right principles considered as foolish in the modern society and the people who are working wrong and making wrong promises are good for the society. However, in turn it is true that corrupted people cheating the simple, ordinary and innocent people. They are ruling the mind of innocent people.

Corruption increases in India day by day because there is a strong connection between the officials, politicians and criminals who are making this country weak and so weak. India got independence in 1947 and it was slowly becoming strong and developing but in the mid way the disease of corruption started and stop India to grow ahead. In India there has been a trend of give and take means give some money in order to get your work done whether in the government offices or private sectors offices. And now the condition is getting worse and worse, as earlier, the money was paid for getting wrong works done or only work to be done, but currently money is paid for getting works done in right ways and at right time. Even after paying complete money according to the demand, there is no full chance of getting things done at time and in right way.

Corruption is everywhere in every department whether it hospitals, education, job, government offices, nothing is left of corruption. Everything has become a business and the source of earning money in wrong way. Educational institutions are also involved in the corruption and they give seat to those students only who have paid for, whether they are good students with good marks or not. Very weak students are given admission in the top colleges and universities only on the basis of money paid for wrong admission and the topper student with good marks and lack of money gets back in the life or take admission in any simple college.

Now-a-days, private sectors companies are so good in comparison to the governmental jobs. Private companies are giving job on the basis of candidate’s skills, ability, technical knowledge, good percentage of marks and all the educational records. However, it has become tough to get job in the government offices as they need lots of bribe to give any type of job (high level or low level) like teaching, clerk, babu, nurse, doctor, sweeper, etc. And the amount of bribe increases in the market as the level of job increase like IAS, PCC, police, etc ranks jobs.

All the essays given above are essay on corruption under various words limit according to the student’s need and requirement in the school. All the corruption essay are written to almost fulfill the current need of students. Corruption is a social issue and this topic is in vogue for the student’s awareness. Following are the other social issues on which we have provided varieties of essays:

Long Essay on Corruption – 1700 words

A majority of us are probably aware of the term “corruption” and the situations in which the word perfectly fits in. The most plausible reference to the nature of corruption could be assessed by the words of Joe Bidden, 47 th Vice President of the United States of America, who quoted – “corruption is just another form of tyranny.” The statement weighs corruption as equivalent to that of cruel and oppressive rule of government. However, for a common man/woman, corruption is a challenge, that he/she faces every day, in protecting of his/her fundamental rights and privileges, otherwise guaranteed by the Constitution.

Corruption in India

Though, the ranking of India in Global Corruption Index 2018 has been improved by three places; at a global rank of 78 it’s still far from becoming a corruption free nation.

Corruption in India had been prevalent even under the subjugation of British Empire, when India was still far from gaining independence. How deeply rooted was the corruption in Indian society, can be assessed by the words of Mohammed Ali Jinnah. The Muslim League Leader once stated – “One of the biggest curses from which India is suffering – I do not say that other countries are free from it, but I think our condition is much worse – is bribery and corruption. That really is a poison”.

This statement of Mr. Jinnah delivered while addressing the first Presidential address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on 11 th August 1947, bares naked the truth of corruption in India, even before independence.

Even after 73 years of Independence, not much has changed on that front for the people of India. On the contrary, corruption has grown in dimension and today, it seriously hampers the economical, social and infrastructural progress of the nation as never before.

Corruption in political and administrative system of the country, is curtailing its progress and it devoid the people of India of their basic rights of equality, freedom, right to equal opportunity and right to compulsory education and health among others.

Factors Leading to or Responsible for Corruption

The corruption is rooted into several social, political and economical factors. Though, the most elaborate explanation for the cause of corruption could be estimated by the words of 19 th century British politician Lord Acten, who had famously said – “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

The quote was a reference to relationship between power and corruption. Corruption is most like to occur with power as the powerful can successfully evade accountability, by using his/her power and influence.

The scenario explained above gels perfectly with the Indian political and administrative system of governance. Huge powers are vested upon our political representatives and administrative officials, by the Constitution. The motive behind bestowing them with power was the greater idea of empowering them to act as facilitators to the public, in general interest of the nation.

They are expected to exercise their powers in implementing several welfare schemes and projects, without any hindrance, for the overall welfare of the people and progress of the nation. However, the whole idea seems to backfiring with, the powerful wielding the powers to their own interests, seriously compromising the interest of the nation and its people.

This is when the corruption slowly seeps into otherwise honest political and administrative circles of India.

Another, most troubling factor behind the prevalence of corruption in India is the latter’s acceptance in society as a common phenomenon. Today, the voices against corruption are fainter than ever before and the people have accepted corruption as natural and unavoidable.

This is the reason why we tend to bribe public servants, to escape the legal formalities on issues those are of interest to us. Moreover, giving and taking bribe is today being considered as a wise act and is being applauded in private, if not publically.

Below is given a point wise narration of other social and economical factors that could escalate corruption –

• Inadequate compensation and monthly emoluments to the government employees could lead them to corruption.
• Illiteracy fuels corruption as it makes a person more submissive and likely to be exploited by greedy officials.
• Illiteracy, poverty and lack of a transparent grievance redressal system make people more vulnerable to political and other types of corruption.
• A decline of ethics and moral values in the society are also responsible for corruption.
• Lack of awareness among the people on their rights and privileges is acting as a fuel to the corruption.

Different Faces of Corruption

The demon of corruption has many faces, than could be imagined, like judicial corruption, governance corruption, corruption in education, corruption in enforcement of laws, financial corruption, political corruption etc. There could be thousands of other similar situations; those could act as examples of corruption. It wouldn’t be possible to elaborate all types of corruption in this essay; however, we will discuss a few of them below.

• The spectrum of corruption is vast enough to affect people from different walks of life. It involves situations like bribing to secure a government job, bribing to lodge a complaint in local police station, bribing the government doctor for treatment, bribing the official for swift movement of file, paying bribe to the official to get the cheque that you deserve anyway.
• Firstly, we will make an assessment of political corruption in India. We all know that the credibility of a political representative is based on the transparent and unbiased election that he or she faces in order to be elected. Despite the Election Commission of India doing a commendable job every time to conduct free and fair elections, there are still some cracks in the otherwise impeccable election system.
• More often than not, during elections, we get stray news from throughout the nation, of voters being influenced by money or by wielding powers, by the contestants in election. Such acts amount to political corruption of highest degree and can adversely influence the democratic structure of the nation.
• Now let’s consider the scenario of a government hospital which functions to provide free or subsidized medical facilities to all the citizens of India. The doctors deployed by the government in the hospitals are compensated adequately for their services; however, sometimes they are seen demanding money from patients to perform an operation or treatment, which should otherwise be performed free of cost. This is a perfect example of corruption in healthcare system.

Likewise there are several examples of corruption in different sectors, depending on their nature and outcome.

Corruption – An Act of Collusion or Not

Corruption is basically an act of collusion between two parties; however, more often than not one party might be forced into the agreement by another party.

Suppose, if a Public Works Department Engineer demands bribe from a civil contractor, for passing the bill for the portion of road constructed by the latter. In this case, though the demand is not obligatory on the contractor, he/she will mostly oblige considering the otherwise cumbersome process of proceeding legally against the demands. In this case the party who gives bribe is actually forced to do so by the party who demands it.

On the contrary, there could be situations in which both the opposite parties have colluded willingly in order to mutually benefit each other. For example a non deserving candidate for a government job, pays bribe to the recruiting official, in order to secure the job.

Nevertheless, whether forced or mutually agreed upon, corruption is an act of collusion, between two parties, which seriously compromises the privileges and rights of other individuals.

Measures to Counter/Control Corruption in India

The corruption in any sector could be effectively controlled by working on improving transparency and accountability in that particular sector. Transparency will ensure that each and every functioning, decision and its outcome is known to the public and all, so that the fairness of the deal could be ascertained. On the other hand accountability places responsibility of an undesirable outcome/loss on an individual.

• This has been done by the government of India under the Right to Information or the RTI act, which had been incorporated in 2005. RTI Act 2005 gives the power of questioning to the common citizen of India. Using the RTI Act anyone could now question any department by simply submitting a RTI application.
• You can now question and get answers on subjects like – how much of the taxes collected, did the government spend and on what mode; how many children in your neighboring school were provided admission under EWS (Economically Weaker Section); what was the cost incurred for the construction of road in your locality and what amount was paid to the contractor; what action did the government take against the official involved in corruption etc.
• The RTI law mandates the appointment of a Public Information Officer (PIO) in all the central and state runs departments and ministries. The provision of responding to the queries is binding on the PIO, who has to do so in a stipulated time, failing which s/he would attract departmental action or a hefty fine.
• The government has also established Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in 1964 to look into the matters of governmental corruption. The CVC functions as an autonomous body, free from the influence of any executive authority.
• The Government has amended Prevention of Corruption Act 1988, to criminalize the party which pays bribe for undue advantages.
• The amendments have a provision to impose penalty on the organization of the person convicted for giving or taking bribery, if latter couldn’t be traced or has deliberately left the country to escape law.
• Another step that could well be taken to eliminate corruption is, setting up a fast and speedy judicial system, to address the corruption cases in the country.

Though, the corruption is rampant in India, it is also true that by and large the common men and women of India are honest and have an evident dislike for corruption. However, deep rooted the corruption might be, it could be successfully eliminated with political will and public awareness.

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Essay on Corruption FAQs

What is corruption in an essay.

Corruption in an essay refers to the act of dishonesty or misuse of power for personal gain, often involving bribery, embezzlement, or unethical behavior.

How do you write a corruption essay?

To write a corruption essay, start with an introduction, discuss its forms and impact, provide real-life examples, and conclude with solutions to tackle this issue.

What is corruption in 200 words?

Corruption is a dishonest act where individuals misuse their authority for personal benefit, leading to societal harm and mistrust. It includes bribery, fraud, and embezzlement.

What are the points of corruption in India?

Corruption in India involves bribery, political scandals, irregularities in government contracts, and a lack of transparency, leading to social and economic problems.

What is corruption in India in simple words?

Corruption in India means people in power using their position for personal gain, leading to unfairness and inequality.

What is corruption in very simple words?

Corruption, in the simplest terms, is when people with authority do bad things for their own benefit, causing harm to others and breaking the rules.

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Essay on “Corruption in Public Life” for Kids and Students, English, Paragraph, Speech for Class 8, 9, 10, 12, College and Competitive Exams.

Corruption in Public Life

Essay No. 01

Corruption is in full swing in our country. It has polluted public life. Money has become a powerful force in life. Everybody wants to become rich overnight. We can’t get any work done without greasing the palm. Right from a peon to a high official, all are corrupt. A petty clerk in a government office enjoys more power than a successful common man. There is no department which is untouched by corruption.

The major factor responsible for widespread corruption is our political set up. In order to keep his political base intact, a politician shields corrupt people. He has no regard for the law of the land. He overlooks the evil practices of these people. If some honest office initiates any action against them, he is checked by political bosses. Many smugglers black-marketers, hoarders and tax-evaders enjoy political patronage. They are hand and glove with our corrupt politicians.

Our defective economic system also breeds corruption. Faulty economic policies have led to heavy price-rise. It has become very difficult for a fixed income group to live up to certain standard. On the other hand corrupt people live in palatial bungalows and lead a life of luxury and plenty. The common people can’t resist the temptation of money. As a result they begin to make easy money through unfair means.

Corruption will have to be abolished at all levels. For that matter our social setup will have to be changed thoroughly. Honesty should be encouraged as well as rewarded. Corrupt people should be punished and socially boycotted. Moral and human values be revived and strengthened. Corrupt politicians should be shown their worth. They should be voted out of power and thrown into the dustbin.

Essay No. 02

The mad rush towards luxury and higher socio-economic status is seen as the main reason for corruption in India. Corruption means bribery or illegal gratifications in economic and political life. In India this problem is so rampant that no one seems to be free from it whether bureaucrats, politicians or businessmen. Corruption is such a problem that even the Anti-Corruption Department is not free from it. Nowadays people have come to take corruption for granted for even a file in an office does not move without a bribe.

Corruption is an evil thing which distances us from our sense of duty, honesty, morality and above all our cherished mantra Satyameva Jayate.

These days corruption is everywhere be it telephone department, DESU, hospitals, government offices. Even educational institutions, have not been spared by this evil practice of corruption. Corruption at high level has nowadays become a routine.

Through media and newspaper we learn that some official was caught taking bribe or pictures of policemen extorting money from a bus, truck or light vehicle can be seen daily.

These days it is common news that large amounts were siphoned off for personal gains. Friends and relatives are favoured by the leaders of the country while the public is kept in the dark.

A corrupt person has a diseased mind and is more of a patient than a criminal for corruption denotes decomposition. These days’ people no longer believe in the maxim of Simple Living, High Thinking. Moreover, various factor like rising prices, lavish life styles have helped corruption to plant itself in our society.

Corruption is so much prevalent in today’s society that people are indulging in black marketing and smuggling goods just for a better life style and not thinking once how much it will harm the nation.

Corruption has spread its tentacles so much in our country that to contain it, will be a challenging task.

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Corruption in India: Status, Causes & Impacts

From Current Affairs Notes for UPSC » Editorials & In-depths » This topic

The menace of corruption is the most talked-about issue in India which grapples the sphere of public debate very often. The phenomenon touches every human being from the one living in slums to the person occupying the highest echelons of the State system. Just like the fictional Voldemort, corruption grows at every utterance of it. In the words of Kautilya “Just as it is impossible not to taste the honey that finds itself in the tip of the tongue, so it is impossible for a government assistant not to eat up, at least a bit of King’s revenue.”

This topic of “Corruption in India: Status, Causes & Impacts” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

What is Corruption?

Transparency International (TI) defines corruption as “The abuse of entrusted power for private gain. It can be classified as grand, petty and political, depending on the amounts of money lost and the sector where it occurs”

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What is the Status of corruption in India?

• In 2021, the country was ranked 85th out of 180 in the Corruption Perceptions Index, with the lowest-ranked countries perceived to have the most honest public sector. Corruption is caused by a variety of factors, including officials stealing money from government social welfare programmes.
• CPI, 2019 highlighted that unfair and opaque political financing, undue influence in decision-making and lobbying by powerful corporate interest groups, has resulted in stagnation or decline in the control of corruption.
• As per the India Corruption Survey 2019, 51% of the respondents admitted to paying bribes. Rajasthan and Bihar fared the worst in the country with 78% and 75% of respondents admitting to paying bribes.

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What are the causes of corruption?

Inquiry into the causes of corruption presents a detailed picture of a socio-political-economic-administrative scenario that breeds corruption on a daily basis.

• Legacy issues –
• Rampant poverty and empty coffers of the government at the dawn of independence leading to chronic low salaries of the government officials.
• Pre liberalization license permit raj catered by Monopolies and restrictive trade practices facilitated the corruption. The lack of economic freedom led to abuse of the system.
• Necessities of development overshadowed vigilance procedures.
• Political system
• Use of black money in elections to win at any cost (breaching statutory spending limits) creates the need for the recovery of that cost through malpractices.
• Election funding is not transparent making it prone to the usage of black money and funding based on quid pro quo.
• It leads to crony capitalism, an unholy nexus between politicians and corporates.
• Criminalization of politics- when the rule-breakers become rule makers, the casualty is the rule of law.
• Economic structure
• Low levels of formalization (merely 10%) of the economy breed black money.
• Stringent compliance rules for entry and exit for businesses result in bribery.
• Unequal distribution of wealth- Transparency International data suggests that corruption is directly proportionate to the economic gap in a nation.
• Faulty process of liberalisation- we first opened ourselves to the world and then took to legislation for various sectors like FDI, resource auction making it easy for foreign companies to manipulate the system.
• Legal lacunae
• Archaic laws like IPC 1860 don’t capture the complexities of administration and lead to the escape of wrongdoers.
• narrows down the definition of corruption,
• increases the burden of proof
• prior approval from the government for inquiry or investigation of officials
• Lacunae in the Lokpal act and delays in the appointments both at the state and central levels.
• Dilution of the RTI act and political misuse of CBI and other agencies.
• Loopholes give discretionary powers to the officials making working prone to corruption.
• Lack of resources, funding, infrastructure and manpower in the vigilance institutions.
• Lack of incorporation of standard practices by organizations like Banks, sports organizations which results in multi-billion-rupee scams. E.g. Punjab National Bank scam, commonwealth scam.
• Delays and dying away from the corruption cases at the judicial level due to lack of evidence or faulty investigation. It also showcases politician-public servant-judicial (lower levels) nexus.
• Lack of protection to good Samaritans
• Targeting of upright and non-corrupt officials and rewards to corrupt officials
• Near non-existent whistleblowers protection
• Social problems
• The mindset of the citizenry that doesn’t look at the problems seriously and even accepts it as a necessary part of the system.
• Illiteracy, poverty, and inability to understand complex procedures.
• Increasing consumerism in the new middle class that is ready to bribe to get things done.
• Failure of social morality, education system to inculcate the values.

What are the impacts of corruption?

• Hindrances to developmental process
• loss of wealth due to corruption and siphoning away of taxpayers’ money leave little to spend in the social sector.
• many developmental projects cannot be completed or get dragged for decades because of red-tapism, corruption cases raising the expenditure
• out of pocket expenditure by the poor to get things done creates a vicious cycle of poverty.
• Corruption in the social sectors like PDS, health and education schemes lead to demographic disadvantage.
• It misdirects developmental strategy from decentralized, directed projects to big-budget projects on account of crony capitalism.
• Economic loss
• Undermines ease of doing business
• Corruption in the public services sector carries high risks for conducting good businesses. Companies are likely to unwanted red tapes, petty corruption, bribes for finalizing any procedures or deals.
• Wrong allocation policies result in undervaluation of resources like Coal blocks, Hydrocarbon projects, Spectrum allocation. Eg. 2G scam, Coalgate. This mismanagement of resources leads to environmental degradation and exploitation.
• Low tax collection due to tax authority- corporate corruption. It results in low spending in the capital building.
• Corruption of financial sector officials like Banks, the stock market erodes the strength of the economy. E.g. PNB scam, PMC scam, Harshad Mehta scandal
• Rising black money artificially enhances the market capability which is always at the risk of collapse.
• Harmful to national security
• We have a history of corruption in defense procurement and consequent litigation. It undermines the preparedness of the armed.
• Corruption in the border security establishment creates problems of terrorist infiltration. Illegal migration has caused the issue of NRC implementation
• Social sector losses
• Corruption in government projects targeting poor and vulnerable section of the society increases the economic gap between the rich and the poor
• Corruption is always paid by the poor. The loss of exchequer by the big scams are always recovered by higher taxes. It hampers intergenerational parity in taxation.
• The corrupt system denies the poor a chance to improve their status rendering them eternally poor
• On the political front, corruption is a major obstacle to democracy and the rule of law.
• It then leads to the loss of legitimacy of the political systems and gives free hand to non-state actors. E.g. Left-wing extremism
• Judicial corruption too undermines its legitimacy.

Way forward

There is a need for windfall reforms in each and every section of the system to fight the menace. Every aspect of governance must be improved for efficiency, economy, and effectiveness .

• Barring the criminals from even participating in the elections as suggested by the election commission.
• Imposing limits on the overall expenditure of the political parties.
• Making state funding of elections a reality.
• Empowering ECI by giving legal force to MCC and making paid news a criminal offence.
• Strengthening of autonomous institutions
• Protecting the autonomy of CIC-giving him a constitutional status
• Provision of required manpower, infrastructure, training of vigilance agencies
• Eliminate overlapping of jurisdiction- e.g. Lokpal and CBI
• Administrative reforms
• Establishing the Civil Service Board to curb the excessive political control over the administration
• Reducing the hierarchy levels in the governments
• Conducting periodic sensitivity training for the civil servants
• Simplifying the disciplinary proceedings and strengthening preventive vigilance within the departments to ensure corrupt civil servant do not occupy the sensitive position
• Police and judicial reforms- implementation of Prakash Singh recommendations
• Governance reforms
• e-gov apart from advancing the good governance objectives of accountability and transparency also seeks to reduce the manual interface between state and citizen thus preventing the incidences of bribery
• Drives like Digital India projects like Government e-Marketplace must be implemented.
• Enactment of the right to service act. E.g. Rajasthan social accountability bill
• Economic reforms
• Negating legal lacunae in banking, stock market legislations.
• Improving corporate governance by implementing corporate governance committee reports
• Formalisation of the economy
• Refining and speedy implementation of GST
• Social sector improvements

As Transparency International chairman Delia Ferreira Rubio says, “People’s indifference is the best breeding ground to the corruption”. citizen empowerment is a basic need in the fight against corruption

• Awareness of citizenry by training them in RTI act, Citizens charter, social audits.
• Increasing democratization of the masses.
• Curriculum reforms to inculcate values even in higher education by which youngsters acquire high standards of ethical mindset.

Integrity, transparency, and fight against corruption have to be part of the culture. They must be thought of as fundamental values of the society we live in. corruption should not be seen as cancer to be eliminated root and branch for now. A practical approach would be to see it at obsession to be cured.  An incremental approach to the problem will lead to an achievable target-setting and faster completion. People should be aware that they can change the system. India against corruption movement of 2011 was not the last fight as we have seen and it cannot be either. There has to be continuous checks and balances in the system. Corruption can be tackled effectively. But it needs homegrown solutions that eliminate indigenous problems.

• India has dropped to 82nd position in 2021, five places down from 77th rank last year, in a global list that ranks countries based on business bribery risks. The list by TRACE, an anti-bribery standard-setting organization, measures business bribery risk in 194 countries, territories, and autonomous and semi-autonomous regions.
• A strict anti-corruption law is “necessary” because corruption is hollowing out the country, the Centre told a five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court, which was considering whether public servants can be prosecuted for bribery if bribe givers fail to record their statements or turn hostile.

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CORRUPTION IN INDIA The development of India and its people and the future is irreparably destroyed due to the massive corruption, bribery and influence peddling. The rule of law is ignored. India is faced with absolute lawlessness, no one is safe and no one’s property is safe. The Higher Judiciary to take stern action against the corrupt politicians, executives and the who’s who of India. In pandemic the leaders have failed its people and caused massive death. Ramesh Mishra Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

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Essay on Corruption in Public Life

Corruption in Public Life:

Corruption is a deep-rooted menace that has eaten into the vitals of society, distorted all values, and made mincemeat of morality, truth, and virtue. The evil has grown to gigantic proportions and there is hardly any sphere of social, economic, political, and even religious activity that is free from graft, deception, and corruption of some kind. Like the air we breathe, it has become all-pervasive and entered every sphere of life. It is now regarded as a fact of life and evil that we have to live with. In fact, corruption has become so common that very few eyebrows are raised when we are informed of any case of blatant bribery. Trade, commerce, and industry, government, and private service, religion, and politics- no sphere are left untouched by corruption. It has infected even hospitals and educational institutions. The pity is that we indulge in corruption without any qualms of conscience. Sometimes one wonders whether the time has come to accept this menace as the price of socialism, progress, and civilization.

Edmund Burke warned the world that a corrupt influence is a personal spring of decay and disorder. It takes away vigor from our arms and wisdom from our councils. Once the evil of corruption is born, it grows very fast. Unfortunately, there was never anything devised by the wit of man which, in the course of time, has not been corrupted. At one time it was said that a corrupt society cannot survive long, but even this belief has proved a myth.

The opportunities for bribery and palm-greasing have increased greatly with the dawn of independence and the growth of democracy and industry, the system of licenses and permits for setting up enterprises, securing quotas of raw materials, imports, and exports, and the expansion of trade and commerce. The types of corruption have increased. The panorama is vast and baffling and beyond control.

The loud talks of anti-corruption measures, stringent laws, and deterrent sentences have no meaning. Occasionally there is a loud burst of resentment against corruption; it is condemned as cancer in society but there is again silence, the flush of enthusiasm fades away and life goes on in the same way. The focus of attention shifts to other more pressing problems of bread and butter, of inquiries and commissions, of majority and minority in Parliament and State Legislatures, of terrorism and communal hatred.

The philosophy of corruption operates interestingly. So long as there are people to offer bribe, there are also people to take it, directly or indirectly. We rationalise the situation and console ourselves that easy money is a human weakness difficult to overcome. The standard of living is constantly rising, soaring prices of essential commodities have broken the back and we indulge in corrupt ways for our children’s sake and since everyone else does it, why not us? Must we be the only angels on earth? Every man, it is said, has his price. When the entire economic and social setup breaths of what is called ‘speed money’ to push things through, it is almost impossible to resist temptation- human beings are, after all, human beings. But the stink lies not only in the prevalence of lure but in the hypocrisy that accompanies it. People accept bribes under the table, then come out to raise anti-corruption slogans at the top of their voices, and urge others to be honest and pure.

It is not difficult to locate the causes of corruption. Corruption breeds at the top and then gradually filters down to the lower levels. Gone are the days when people who joined politics were imbued with the spirit of serving the nation. Those who threw themselves into the fight for freedom knew that there were only sacrifices to be made and no return was expected. So only the most selfless people came forward. But the modern politicians are of an entirely different mold. They are not motivated by any lofty ideas. They win elections at a huge personal cost and then try to make the best of the opportunity they get. Powerful business magnates who are forced to give huge donations to political parties indulge in corrupt practices not only to make up for their losses but even to consolidate their gains. When people in power indulge in corruption so unabashedly, the common man gets a kind of sanction. Ironically instead of fighting against the menace of corruption our political leaders declare it a worldwide phenomenon and accept it as something inevitable.

Promises and oaths of honesty are soon made and forgotten. However, measures calculated to produce a social climate both among public servants and in the general public are essential. A new tradition of integrity can be established only if the example is set by those who have the ultimate responsibility for the governance of the society. The Prime Minister is trying hard to project a clean image. He has even designed a code of conduct for politicians in high positions to ensure the purity of their public image. Let us be honest and admit that our conduct and character lack that grace and strength which are the distinguishing marks of free people everywhere. We must submit to some serious introspection and realize the enormity of our weakness which is eating into our strength as a nation. Once we have realized this, it should not be difficult to end corruption at all levels of life. In fact, public apathy is an unconscious sanction of corruption.

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Corruption in Public Life

Syllabus: Challenges of Corruption

Source: Indian Express

Context: The CBI has registered an FIR against former finance secretary Arvind Mayaram for alleged cheating, criminal conspiracy, and corruption.

• Previously, Jharkhand IAS officer Pooja Singhal was suspended for misappropriation of funds in MGNREGA

What is the case agains Mayaram?

He is accused of extending undue favours to the UK-based company De La Rue by giving a three-year extension to its “expired contract” for the supply of exclusive colour shift security thread for Indian currency notes when he was finance secretary.

What is Corruption?

Corruption refers to  unethical behaviour, which is characterized by misuse of public or organizational power , causing harm not only to organizations but also to society.

• The word corrupt is from the Latin word ‘corruptus’ meaning to break or destroy
• Corruption is an important manifestation of the failure of ethics
• Corruption misuse of entrusted power for private gain

The Wheel of corruption:

In India, corruption, and abuse of office are aggravated by the following factors:

• The colonial legacy of unchallenged authority , the propensity to exercise power arbitrarily – easy to deviate from ethical conduct
• Enormous asymmetry of power – eco, social inequalities, caste legacy, 90% workforce in unorganized sector
• Policies after independence – e.g. State subsidies, and beneficiary-oriented programmes in the situation of asymmetry of power converted public servants into patrons, citizens into mendicant
• Over-centralization increases corruption – a large number of functionaries b/w citizens and decision-makers diffuses accountability
• Quality of politics – criminal-politician nexus
• Politicians secure votes through money, and muscle power & criminals enter politics to interfere in crime investigation, monetary gain creates “acceptance” for criminals to enter politics

Impact of Corruption:

Two approaches to deal with corruption and abuse of office

• Overemphasis on values, and character – assume values must be restored to fight Corruption
• Have the belief that most humans are fundamentally decent but a small proportion cannot reconcile individual goals with the goals of society. For such persons, we must deal with them firmly
• The creation of institutions and the designing of incentives are crucial for promoting the ethical conduct of civil servants
• Need systemic reform Holistic approach
• Punitive measures as a deterrent
• Preventive measures to reduce opportunities

Related News:

UK-based company De La Rue kickbacks to Indian bureaucrats were revealed through Panama Paper leaks (2016). Hence it becomes important to know the different paper leaks

About Printing of Currency notes

Bank notes are printed at four currency presses , two of which are owned by the Government of India through its Corporation, Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd. (SPMCIL) and two are owned by the Reserve Bank , through its wholly owned subsidiary, Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Ltd

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Essay on Corruption in Public Life

Corruption in public life is not a modern phenomenon. It was prevalent in the political and civic life of ancient India too as has been discussed by Kautilya in his Arthashastra.

But, it is only since independence that corruption has become a chronic feature of our public life. So much so that people have started treating it as a normal feature. They no longer show righteous indignation against corrupt practices, fight injustice or express and shock when big scandals like ‘Fairfax Deal’ and ‘Bofors Pay-offs’ are exposed.

Before India became free, she was ruled by the British with the help of a small and compact body of bureaucrats of the Indian Civil Service. These officers, not wholly above corruption, helped the British to maintain law and order and run the administration efficiently.

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Certain government departments like PW.D. And the police were notorious for their corrupt practices even then. However, corruption was not so rampant as it is today, for the simple reason that there were fewer opportunities.

After independence we adopted a democratic socialistic pattern of society. Democracy to be successful must have responsible citizens who are not merely aware of their rights but also of their moral duties.

They owe it to themselves to put those people in power who have proven record of integrity, public service and high values. It was indeed sad when public trust in their chosen leaders was betrayed. It did not take very long for people to realise that the faith they had placed in the politicians was misplaced.

“Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely—” this maxim of Lord Acton was evident from the behaviour of our leaders in power. Whenever a scandal is exposed, commissions of inquiry are appointed to appease the public fury and anger. However, the complete truth is never made public.

Opportunities for corruption in a developing country committed to socialist pattern are endless.

Undoubtedly, there are rules and regulations governing the conduct of public servants. However, these can be twisted and interpreted in accordance with the circumstances.

There is widespread nepotism, favouritism and manipulation at the ministerial level and among senior bureaucrats. Even a petty clerk in a government office wields more power than a more successful private citizen. It is said, to get even a paper moved in the government offices, one has to grease the itching palms of these people.

One of the factors responsible for corruption is the conflict between civil servants and politicians. In order to maintain his political base and consolidate his position in his constituency, a politician accommodates many people—prominent, wealthy voters, influential party leaders, members of parliament, etc.— and grants them concessions to gain their support.

On the other hand, conscientious civil servants are constantly thwarted in their attempts to move according to established rules. This is one of the crucial reasons why anti-social activities cannot effectively be brought under control.

Many hoarders, smugglers, tax-evaders, business houses enjoy political support, thus weakening the hands of the authorities.

Corruption can certainly be checked if the civil servants do not succumb to political pressure. However, government should ensure that there is no victimisation of such honest officers, otherwise it can demoralise them.

There is a widespread impression that many of our politicians and party chiefs place personal and party interests above public welfare and thereby endanger democratic values.

This is certainly not an exaggeration. It is not the duty of a legislator to work for big business houses and secure those concessions, licences and contracts in the hope of getting heavy donations to party funds to meet the election expenses.

Businessmen motivated by self-interest, do not necessarily donate because they approve of the party’s policies and programmes. As political parties cannot function without funds they are, therefore, obliged to accept money from these business houses in exchange for certain concessions.

The only way to eliminate this form of corruption is that the election expenses should be reduced to the minimum and the law should be vigorously enforced.

One reason why corruption has increased to such alarming proportions is that though our economy has made progress yet price levels have risen to such fantastic height that the purchasing power of the rupee has fallen considerably. It has made the life of fixed income group very difficult.

Simultaneously, there has been an astounding increase in the number of nouveauxriches who flaunt their black money blantantly living in palatial houses and make the middle classes feel helpless.

Many of them cannot resist the temptation of making easy money to maintain their social status and meet the increasing demands of their families fanned by the overnight availability of luxury consumer goods.

However, this does not in any way justify corruption, but brings us to the point that we have forgotten our Gandhian ideals and merely pay lip service to them. Had all our politicians led an austere life, corruption in the administration could have been greatly checked, if not altogether eliminated.

Besides, no amount of revision in the pay scales can satisfy the people unless the abnormal rise in the prices of essential commodities is brought under control. If we want to check the corruption in bureaucracy, this is the most important need of the day.

Public apathy to the rampant corrupt practices and their growing indifference to the virtual breakdown of law and order machinery only encourage the anti-social activities. Instead of organising ourselves to fight corruption, black marketing, artificial shortages, we just express helplessness and give vent to impotent rage.

It is only the combined effort of public, administrative machinery and conscientious public servants which can help to check corrupt practices.

An alert administration can certainly detect the guilty. We cannot deny that occasionally, under the pressure of public furore guilty are punished, but it is equally true that many cases of corruption are dropped under political pressure.

Today, corruption has become so widespread that there is no sphere of national life where it does not exist. Large sums of money allocated for development programmes, community projects, tribal welfare, etc. are misappropriated by corrupt officials and never reach the real beneficiaries. Corruption has even invaded the educational sphere.

Large amounts of capitation fee are demanded, deserving students are denied admissions to accommodate less deserving candidates who have political backing. It is inconceivable that so much tax evasion, accumulation of black money, smuggling, hoarding, black marketing, etc. should go on and remain undetected without the protection of the authorities.

If we are serious to eradicate corruption from the gras­sroots level, then have to revamp the whole machinery. Here, the role of our educational institutions in inculcating the moral values among the youth of tomorrow cannot be underestimated. There is a need for moral reawakening of our people, leaders and administrators.

In order to lead a successful crusade against corruption in public life, both the government and the opposition should work in a spirit of cooperation and not try to make political capital out of corrupt scandals.

Opposition has a very crucial role to play in a democracy. It should be responsible and not always waiting to pounce on the government to discredit it.

Our democratic system is bound to get grievously hurt, if the people in power do not rise to the occasion and face the glaring truth with courage, foresight and patience. It is only if a serious effort is made to live upto the Gandhian code of morality, that we can hope to strengthen the nation.

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Essay on “Corruption in Public Life” Complete Essay for Class 10, Class 12 and Graduation and other classes.

Corruption in Public Life

Corruption in public life is not a modern phenomenon. It was prevalent in the political and civic life of ancient India too as has been discussed by Kautilya in his Arthashasua. But, it is only since independence that corruption has become a chronic feature of our public life. So much so that people have started treating it as a normal feature. They no longer show righteous indignation against corrupt practices, fight injustice or express and shock when big scandals like ‘Fairfax Deal’ and ‘Bofors Pay-offs’ are exposed.

Before India became free, she was ruled by the British with the help of a small and compact body of bureaucrats of the Indian Civil Service. These officers, not wholly above corruption, helped the British to maintain law and order and run the administration efficiently. Certain government departments like P.W.D. and the police were notorious for their corrupt practices even then. However, corruption was not so rampant as it is today, for the simple reason that there were fewer opportunities.

After independence we adopted a democratic socialistic pattern of society. Democracy to be successful must have responsible citizens who are not merely aware of their rights but also of their moral duties.

They owe it to themselves to put those people in power who have proven record of integrity, public service and high values. It was indeed sad when public trust in their chosen leaders was betrayed. It did not take very long for people to realize that the faith they had placed in the politicians was misplaced. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely—” this maxim of Lord Acton was evident from the behaviour of our leaders in power. Whenever a scandal is exposed. commissions of inquiry are appointed to appease the public fury and anger. However, the complete truth is never made public.

Opportunities for corruption in a developing country committed to socialist pattern are endless. Undoubtedly, there are rules and regulations governing the conduct of public servants. However, these can be twisted and interpreted in accordance with the circumstances. There is widespread nepotism, favoritism and manipulation at the ministerial level and among senior bureaucrats. Even a petty clerk in a government office wields more power than a more successful private citizen It is said, to get even a paper moved in the government offices, one has to grease the itching palms of these people.

One of the factors responsible for corruption is the conflict between civil servants and politicians. In order to maintain his political base and consolidate his position in his constituency, a politician accommodates many people—prominent, wealthy voters, influential party leaders, members of parliament, etc.—and grants them concessions to gain their support On the other hand, conscientious civil servants are constantly thwarted in their attempts to move according to established rules This is one of the crucial reasons why anti-social activities cannot effectively be brought under control. Many hoarders, smugglers, tax-evaders, business houses enjoy political support, thus weakening the hands of the authorities. Corruption can certainly be checked if the civil servants do not succumb to political pressure. However, government should ensure that there is no victimization of such honest officers, otherwise it can demoralize them.

There is a widespread impression that many of our politicians and party chiefs place personal and party interests above public welfare and thereby endanger democratic values. This is certainly not an exaggeration. It is not the duty of a legislator to work for big business houses and secure them concessions, licenses and contracts in the hope of getting heavy donations to party funds to meet the election expenses. Businessmen motivated by self-interest, do not necessarily donate because they approve of the party’s policies and programmes. As political parties cannot function without funds they are, therefore, obliged to accept money from these business houses in exchange for certain concessions. The only way to eliminate this form of corruption is that the election expenses should be reduced to the minimum and the law should be vigorously enforced.

One reason why corruption has increased to such alarming proportions is that though our economy has made progress yet price levels have risen to such fantastic height that the purchasing power of the rupee has fallen considerably. It has made the life of fixed income group very difficult. Simultaneously, – there has been an astounding increase in the number of nouveauxriches who flaunt their black money blatantly living in palatial houses and make the middle classes feel helpless. Many of them cannot resist the temptation of making easy money to maintain their social status and meet the increasing demands of their families fanned by the overnight availability of luxury consumer goods.

However, this does not in any way justify corruption. but brings us to the point that we have forgotten our Gandhian ideals and merely pay lip service to them. Had all our politicians led an austere life, corruption in the administration could have been greatly checked, if not altogether eliminated. Besides, no amount of revision in the pay scales can satisfy the people unless the abnormal rise in the prices of essential commodities is brought under control. If we want to check the corruption in bureaucracy, this is the most important need of the day.

Public apathy to the rampant corrupt practices and their growing indifference to the virtual breakdown of law and order machinery only encourage the anti-social activities. Instead of organizing ourselves to fight corruption black marketing, artificial shortages. We just express helplessness and give vent to impotent rage. It is only the combined effort of public, administrative machinery and conscientious public servants which can help to check corrupt practices. An alert administration can certainly detect the guilty. We cannot deny that occasionally, under the pressure of public furore guilty are punished, but it is equally true that many cases of corruption are dropped under political pressure.

Today, corruption has become so widespread that there is no sphere of national life where it does not exist. Large sums of money allocated for development programmes, community projects, tribal welfare, etc. are misappropriated by corrupt officials and never reach the real beneficiaries. Corruption has even invaded the educational sphere. Large amounts of capitation fee are demanded, deserving students are denied, admissions to accommodate less deserving candidates who have political backing. It is inconceivable that so much tax evasion, accumulation of black money, smuggling, hoarding, black marketing, etc. should go on and remain undetected without the protection of the authorities.

If we are serious to eradicate corruption from the grassroots level, then have to revamp the whole machinery. Here, the role of our educational institutions in inculcating the moral values among the youth of tomorrow cannot be underestimated. There is a need for moral reawakening of our people, leaders and administrators. In order to lead a successful crusade against corruption in public life, both the government and the opposition should work in a spirit of cooperation and not try to make political capital out of corrupt scandals.

Opposition has a very crucial role to play in a democracy. It should be responsible and not always waiting to pounce on the government to discredit it. Our democratic system is bound to get grievously hurt, if the people in power do not rise to the occasion and face the glaring truth with courage, foresight and patience. It is only” if a serious effort is made to live upto the Gandhian code of morality, that we can hope to strengthen the nation.

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-tim-walzs-past-statements

Looking back at Tim Walz’s record and past statements

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Vice President Kamala Harris has tapped Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, capping a historically compressed vice presidential search.

Walz rocketed up the list of finalists on the strength of his folksy relatability, gubernatorial experience and congressional record representing a conservative-leaning district.

READ MORE: Harris selects Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as running mate

“I am proud to announce that I’ve asked @Tim_Walz to be my running mate,” Harris posted on X Aug. 6. “As a governor, a coach, a teacher, and a veteran, he’s delivered for working families like his. It’s great to have him on the team. Now let’s get to work.”

Walz rose to the rank of command sergeant major over 24 years in the U.S. Army National Guard and worked as a teacher and football coach. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives by ousting a Republican incumbent in a heavily rural district in 2006. Walz was elected governor in 2018 and was reelected in 2022.

“He’s a smart choice if they deploy him in two specific ways,” said Blois Olson, a political analyst for WCCO radio in Minneapolis-St. Paul. “Send him to rural areas to counter the polarization and the idea that only Republicans can win there. And have him keep the deep left base satisfied, which could be an issue with a very moody voting bloc.”

Olson said Walz’s rural experience and regular-guy vibes might be able to shave 2 to 4 percentage points off GOP electoral performance in rural Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — three states considered crucial to a Democratic victory in November.

WATCH LIVE: Harris holds first rally with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz after choosing him as running mate

“The most recent Survey USA poll taken last month for KSTP-TV had Walz’ job approval at a healthy 56 percent,” said Steve Schier, a political scientist at Carleton College in Minnesota. “That said, Minnesota is quite a polarized state, and Republicans in the state despise him. He initially campaigned as a moderate in 2018 but has governed as a progressive.”

Walz was one of several potential vice presidential options floated since President Joe Biden announced he’d cede the nomination and endorsed Harris. Other frequently cited names were Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Now that he is Harris’ running mate, we are on the lookout for claims by and about Walz to fact-check — just as we are for Harris and former President Donald Trump and his vice presidential pick, Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio. Readers can email us suggestions to [email protected].

READ MORE: Fact-checking JD Vance’s past statements and relationship with Trump

Republicans have already begun to question Walz’s handling of the rioting following the murder of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody. Walz clashed with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey over how to handle the unrest, but he sent the Minnesota National Guard to aid local law enforcement.

Who is Tim Walz?

Walz grew up in Nebraska but moved with his wife, Gwen, to Minnesota in 1996 to teach high school geography and coach football; his teams won two state championships.

He was 42 when he ran for Congress, a decision sparked by a 2004 incident at an appearance by President George W. Bush. “Walz took two students to the event, where Bush campaign staffers demanded to know whether he supported the president and barred the students from entering after discovering one had a sticker for Democratic candidate John Kerry,” according to the Almanac of American Politics. “Walz suggested it might be bad PR for the Bush campaign to bar an Army veteran, and he and the students were allowed in. Walz said the experience sparked his interest in politics, first as a volunteer for the Kerry campaign and then as a congressional candidate.”

Walz’s ideological profile is nuanced. The other highest-profile finalist for Harris’ running mate, Shapiro, was pegged as somewhat more moderate and bipartisan than Walz. An Emerson College poll released in July found Shapiro with 49 percent approval overall in his state, including a strong 46 percent approval from independents and 22 percent from Republicans.

When he was elected to Congress, Walz represented a district that had sent Republicans to Washington for 102 of the previous 114 years, according to the Almanac of American Politics. Representing that constituency, Walz was able to win the National Rifle Association’s endorsement and he voted for the Keystone XL pipeline — two positions that have become highly unusual in today’s Democratic Party.

During his first gubernatorial term, Walz worked with legislative Republicans, which produced some bipartisan achievements, including $275 million for roads and bridges, additional funds for opioid treatment and prevention, and a middle-income tax cut.

In 2022, Walz won a second term by a 52 percent to 45 percent margin. Democrats also flipped the state Senate, providing him with unified Democratic control in the Legislature. This enabled Walz to enact a progressive wish list of policies, including classifying abortion as a “fundamental right,” a requirement that utilities produce carbon-free energy by 2040, paid family leave and legalizing recreational marijuana. He also signed an executive order safeguarding access to gender-affirming health care for transgender residents.

After Harris’ announcement, the Trump campaign attacked Walz’s legislative record in a campaign email: “Kamala Harris just doubled-down on her radical vision for America by tapping another left-wing extremist as her VP nominee.”

Olson noted that Walz “only has one veto in six years. He doesn’t say ‘no’ to the left, after being a moderate. That’s a reason he’s now beloved by the left.”

Democrats have controlled the Minnesota state Legislature’s lower chamber during Walz’ entire tenure. However, Republicans controlled the state Senate for his first four years in office.

Walz’s meteoric three-week rise on the national scene stemmed after calling Trump, Vance and other Republicans in their circle “weird.”

In a July 23 interview on MSNBC, Walz predicted that Harris would win older, white voters because she was talking about substance, including schools, jobs and environmental policy.

“These are weird people on the other side,” Walz said. “They want to take books away. They want to be in your exam room. That’s what it comes down to. And don’t, you know, get sugarcoating this. These are weird ideas.”

Days later on MSNBC , Walz reiterated the point: “You know there’s something wrong with people when they talk about freedom. Freedom to be in your bedroom. Freedom to be in your exam room. Freedom to tell your kids what they can read. That stuff is weird. They come across weird. They seem obsessed with this.”

Other Democrats, including the Harris campaign, amplified the “weird” message, quickly making Walz a star in online Democratic circles.

Walz also attracted notice for being a self-styled fix-it guy who has helped pull a car out of a ditch and given advice about how to save money on car repairs . He staged a bill signing for free breakfast and lunch for students surrounded by cheering children .

Schier said he expects Walz to be a compatible ticket-mate who won’t upstage the presidential nominee. “Walz will be a loyal companion to Harris,” Schier said.

One thing Walz does not bring to the table is a critical state for the Democratic ticket. In 2024, election analysts universally rate Minnesota as leaning or likely Democratic. By contrast, Shapiro’s state of Pennsylvania is not only one of a handful of battleground states but also the one with the biggest haul of electoral votes, at 19. Another finalist, Kelly, represents another battleground state with nine electoral votes, Arizona.

Fact-checking Walz

We have not put Walz on our Truth-O-Meter. However, days after Floyd’s murder, we wrote a story about how a false claim about out-of-state protestors was spread by Minnesota officials, including Walz, and then national politicians, including Trump.

At a May 2020 news conference, Walz said he understood that the catalyst for the protests was “Minnesotans’ inability to deal with inequalities, inequities and quite honestly the racism that has persisted.” But there was an issue with “everybody from everywhere else.”

“We’re going to start releasing who some of these people are, and they’ll be able to start tracing that history of where they’re at, and what they’re doing on the ‘dark web’ and how they’re organizing,” Walz said. “I think our best estimate right now that I heard is about 20 percent that are Minnesotans and about 80 percent are outside.”

The statistic soon fell apart.

Within hours, local TV station KARE reported that Minneapolis-based police tallies of those arrested for rioting, unlawful assembly, and burglary-related crimes from May 29 to May 30 showed that 86 percent of those arrested listed Minnesota as their address. Twelve out of 18 people arrested in St. Paul were from Minnesota.

Confronted with these numbers, the officials walked back their comments that evening or did not repeat them. In a news conference, Walz did not repeat his earlier 80 percent assertion. KARE-TV wrote that Walz said the estimate was based in part on law enforcement intelligence information and that the state would monitor developments.

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