Has Corruption Become Legal in India Under BJP Rule?

Recent developments in India, particularly under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule, have sparked intense debate about the role of corruption in the socio-political landscape. The case of Feku, who has been running an extortion racket for the past decade, raises questions about the government's stance on such activities, especially when officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Emergency Defences (ED) are involved. This article delves into the broader context of corruption in India and its implications for democratic governance.

Corruption and Political Funds

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government has introduced the electoral bond scheme as a means to fund the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This initiative aims to replace the traditional method of accepting cash donations with the issuance of bonds that can be purchased from banks for a face value of Rs 1,000, Rs 10,000, or Rs 100,000. The primary argument in favor of this change is the increased transparency and reduced risk of cash being used for illegal activities such as corruption and money laundering. However, critics argue that this move might have unintended consequences, potentially making corruption seem more acceptable in the eyes of the public.

Feku's Case and Its Implications

Feku's case exemplifies the dark side of corruption in India. For the past decade, he has been engaging in an extortion racket with the help of ED officials, intimidating victims and extracting funds under the guise of electoral bonds. His actions have been termed as those of an anti-national, and many wonder whether such behavior should go unchallenged by the authorities. This instance underscores the critical need for stringent laws and effective enforcement mechanisms to combat corruption.

Historical Context of Corruption in India

The roots of corruption in India can be traced back to the early years of its independence. One of the earliest high-profile instances of corruption involved LIC (Life Insurance Corporation) scam under the leadership of Shri Jawaharlal Nehru. In 1957, Haridas Mundhra, an industrialist based in Calcutta, managed to deceive the government-owned Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) into investing a massive sum of Rs 12,686,100 (one crore twenty-six lakh eighty-six thousand and hundred) in his troubled companies, all without the knowledge of the investment committee.

This act of deceit was achieved through governmental pressure and unethical practices, setting a precedent for future corruption scandals. While it may be argued that the circumstances were different and the consequences less severe compared to modern-day incidents, it serves as a stark reminder of how deeply embedded corruption is in the fabric of Indian society.

Development of Dictatorial Trends

International agencies have warned that India is already moving towards a partial form of dictatorship. This situation is not merely confined to the electoral bond scheme but extends to the overall approach of the government towards transparency and accountability. As a result, the landscape is increasingly characterized by a lack of trust in the democratic processes and institutions, raising serious concerns among citizens and global observers.

Conclusion

As the debate around corruption in India intensifies, it is clear that the government's approach needs a thorough reevaluation. While the introduction of electoral bonds may have been intended to increase transparency, it is crucial to address the underlying issues that foster corruption. This includes ensuring robust laws, effective enforcement, and a culture of integrity throughout society. The case of Feku and the historical context of the LIC scam highlight the urgency of these reforms and the need for a more ethical approach to politics and governance.