In order to achieve development goals, public funds must be used effectively. Analyze critically the causes of improper and underuse of public finances as well as the effects of each. (150 words) [UPSC 2019]
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Non-Performance of Duty as a Form of Corruption
Agreement with the View:
**1. Definition and Impact
a. Definition of Corruption:
Corruption is often understood as the abuse of power for personal gain. Non-performance of duty by a public servant can be seen as a form of corruption if it results in personal or political gain, or neglects the public’s needs.
b. Impact on Governance:
When a public servant fails to perform their duties, it undermines governance and public trust. For instance, Bihar’s 2019 flood relief operations faced criticism for inadequate response, leading to severe hardships for affected people. The non-performance of duties by officials exacerbated the situation and can be viewed as a corruption of responsibility.
**2. Accountability and Consequences
a. Accountability Issues:
Non-performance often reflects a lack of accountability and commitment, akin to corruption. For example, the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in some states was hampered by inefficiencies and negligence, impacting the effectiveness of the vaccination drive.
b. Consequences for Public Welfare:
Such non-performance can lead to poor public service delivery and a loss of public resources, which can be seen as corruption. It deprives citizens of their entitled services and damages the integrity of the public service system.
Conclusion:
Yes, non-performance of duty can be viewed as a form of corruption because it involves the misuse of entrusted power, leading to negative consequences for public welfare and governance.
Model Answer
Introduction
The non-performance of duty by a public servant can indeed be viewed as a form of corruption. This perspective stems from the violation of accountability principles and the breach of public trust that results when public servants fail to fulfill their responsibilities. Such failures not only hinder the public interest but also deny citizens their rightful entitlements. Therefore, I agree that non-performance of duty constitutes a form of corruption.
Body
Breach of Trust
Public servants are entrusted with specific duties to serve the public interest. When they neglect their responsibilities, it represents a breach of that trust. For example, in the Delhi gang-rape case (2012), a police officer’s failure to act promptly resulted in a significant breach of public trust, highlighting the dire consequences of non-performance (BBC News, 2012).
Wasting Public Resources
Non-performance often leads to the ineffective use of public resources. The Commonwealth Games scam (2010) is a stark example, where funds allocated for infrastructure were misused, resulting in cost overruns and substandard construction (The Hindu, 2010).
Hindering Progress and Development
Failure to perform duties can obstruct societal progress. The delayed Mumbai Metro Line 2A project exemplifies this issue, where bureaucratic inefficiencies caused significant delays, hampering essential transportation development (Times of India, 2020).
Facilitating Corruption
Non-performance can create an environment conducive to corruption. The Vyapam scam (2013), where government officials manipulated entrance exams, illustrates how negligence in duty can lead to bribery and irregular admissions (The Indian Express, 2013).
Violation of Legal and Ethical Obligations
Public servants are bound by legal and ethical standards. The 2G spectrum scam (2008) showed how officials violated regulations in allocating telecom licenses, resulting in enormous financial losses for the government (The Economic Times, 2012).
Conclusion
The non-performance of duty by civil servants is indeed a form of corruption, with profound implications for public trust and resource allocation. It is crucial to foster greater accountability and integrity within public service to ensure that civil servants diligently fulfill their responsibilities in serving the public interest.