The origin of corruption and its possible remedies

Birendra Laishram *

The Manipuri proverb “Hubani haidana hurabadi Leima hoo” translates to “If you must steal, steal the princess.” This isn’t an endorsement of theft but suggests that if one is going to take a risk, one should aim high and seek something truly valuable. It serves as a metaphor for pursuing ambitious goals and taking bold actions rather than settling for less impactful endeavours. Ultimately, it emphasises that if you’re going to take a risk, it should be worthwhile.

Reports often show that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raids the Income Tax office, while the reverse occurs with Income Tax probing the CBI. The question is who will guard the guard. Corruption has been a part of human history for a long time, it is of the concept that happiness is through possession of materials.

A greater number of possessions can contribute to an individual’s overall sense of happiness and well-being; however, it is important to note that the accumulation of these possessions through corrupt practices and unethical methods is fundamentally sinful and morally wrong.

Ancient civilizations, including Egypt and China, documented examples of corruption, such as judicial corruption in Egypt’s First Dynasty (3100–2700 BC) and the practice of bribing the Kitchen God in China and of bribing the royal astrologers in Manipur for favourable results.

This issue has persisted from the bribed oracles of ancient Greece to modern political scandals, becoming a major global challenge, particularly during the economic growth of the 20th century. Understanding the historical roots of corruption emphasizes the importance of continued efforts to fight it. How can we effectively tackle corruption today ?

Corruption, bribery, and nepotism are closely linked to the relentless quest for money and power. When financial motives dominate areas like education, elections and job opportunities, unethical practices become more likely in the institutions. This undermines the integrity of institutions and erodes public trust.

The idea of Government-funded free education is intriguing neutralising the corporatisation of education. By ensuring education is universally accessible, we can create a more just society. Furthermore, enforcing strict anti-corruption laws, transparent hiring processes, and strong oversights are essential steps in addressing these issues; and removing the financial burden on students and their families, we could reduce the incentives for corruption in educational settings.

Making education accessible to all, regardless of economic status, promotes fairness. Additionally, after the children are grown up, by adopting fair and transparent hiring practices in both Government and corporate sectors can help combat bribery and nepotism, ensuring that hiring is based on merit rather than personal connections or financial influence.

Corruption is a complex issue influenced by societal values, legal frameworks, and enforcement. Therefore, comprehensive reforms are essential, including robust anti-corruption laws, transparent governance, and public awareness of its detrimental effects. Promoting a culture of integrity through awareness campaigns, ethical training, and whistleblowing is critical.

Anti-corruption measures alone aren’t sufficient; systemic change is needed. Instilling values such as integrity and empathy in children is crucial. Education that emphasizes honesty and the impact of corruption can help cultivate a culture of transparency and fairness from an early age. Parents should understand cultivating their children through ill means seldom harvests healthy fruits.

In addition to moral education, establishing a system that prioritizes transparency and accountability across all sectors is essential. Anti-corruption agencies must operate independently and be well-resourced. Encouraging citizens to report corrupt activities is also key to fostering accountability. Utilizing digital tools and surveillance can enhance transparency in government transactions, reducing opportunities for corruption.

Combining these technological measures with moral education could create a more effective strategy against corruption. Leveraging technology can promote transparency by making information about government spending and decision-making accessible to the public. This openness empowers citizens and encourages them to question suspicious or unjust activities.

Encouraging civic engagement through commu- nity involvement in governance is also critical in the fight against corruption. Programs that promote participatory real budgeting allow citizens to directly influence public fund allocation, which can reduce misuse and enhance accountability among public officials.

Collaboration with civil society organizations is vital, as they often act as watchdogs, holding institutions accountable and advocating for community needs. Strengthening their capacity to monitor and report corruption can help create a strong barrier against unethical practices.

International cooperation is equally important, as corruption transcends borders. Countries must collaborate to tackle illicit financial flows and create a unified strategy to prevent corrupt officials from escaping justice by hiding assets abroad. Stronger extradition treaties and information-sharing agreements can deter corruption by signalling that there will be no safe haven for such actions.

The fight against corruption requires a compre- hensive strategy that combines moral education, technological advancements, community engage- ment, and international collaboration. By addressing both the cultural and systemic roots of corruption, we can foster a more just and ethical society where integrity is valued, and corrupt practices are rejected. All sectors—Government, business, and civil society—must commit to these principles to create an environment where everyone shares responsibility for upholding ethical standards.

Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that combating corruption is not solely the government’s responsibility; it requires active participation from all parts of society. Businesses play a crucial role in shaping their operational environment. Corporate governance that prioritizes ethical behavior, transparency, and accountability sets a strong example for others. Companies that adhere to high ethical stan- dards not only enhance their reputations but also contribute to a culture of integrity in the wider community.

Incentivizing ethical behavior in the corporate sector can be achieved by recognizing and rewarding businesses committed to social responsibility and anti-corruption measures. By creating a competitive environment that values integrity, companies will be less likely to engage in corrupt practices and more motivated to pursue fair competition and equitable workplaces.

Education is vital not only for the younger generation but also for current leaders and decision-makers in both public and private sectors. Continuous professional development programs focusing on ethics, compliance, and the benefits of corruption-free operations can equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to resist unethical practices. Such initiatives reinforce that integrity aligns with moral values and can lead to tangible benefits, such as increased trust from stakeholders and improved organizational performance.

In conclusion, the media as a mouthpiece of the society plays an essential role in combating corruption. Investigative journalism can expose corrupt practices and hold those in power accountable. When the media acts as a watchdog, it helps prevent corruption from thriving in secrecy.

By raising awareness and sharing information about corruption cases, the media empowers citizens to demand accountability and transparency from their leaders. Protecting media freedom is crucial in this effort.