Freedom from corruption will bring true Independence

As we celebrate another year of independence, we must ask ourselves whether we are truly free. After 66 years, we face many problems and many of our people suffer various forms of deprivation. These are mainly because of wrong policies and practices that are the result of the greed of certain sections of the privileged political, social and economic classes. Today, even the security of the country is at risk and there is little confidence that the threats will be countered effectively.

After more than six decades, by the government’s own admission, the benefits of schemes and subsidies do not reach the people for whom they are meant. And to change the economic deprivation still suffered by a large number of people, the government is working on a direct cash transfer facility and a food security plan. But whether these will be implemented successfully is open to debate.

Because corruption is so deeply entrenched in the system that even a groundswell of public opinion expressed under the leadership of Gandhian Anna Hazare could not initiate steps towards transparency, which is so crucial for any democratic, developing society.

Yes, we have had an explosion in the population. So with the number of people increasing four times since 1947, one would have accepted a corresponding increase in prices. But prices have soared beyond explanation to levels that are threatening the existence of the common man.

Is this the independence for which our freedom fighters laid down their lives? We salute them for their sacrifice. However, the people will be truly free only when the country’s resources are freed from the clutches of the corrupt.
—Ravishankar G Iyer, Thane