Is There Any Significant Difference Between Mr. Narendra Modi and Mr. Manmohan Singh in Terms of Corruption and Governance?

Every country has to deal with corruption as a pervasive issue, and India is no exception. Almost all political parties in the nation have their fair share of corruption scandals, which significantly impact the economy through direct financial losses and non-performing assets (NPAs). To combat this, developed nations have implemented robust governance processes aimed at transparency, efficient resource management, and stronger regulatory mechanisms. These processes are often overseen by technocrats to prevent day-to-day political interference.

Comprehensive Governance Processes for a Globally Competitive Economy

Mature economies prioritize the strengthening of governance processes. This includes clarity in policies, enabling the private sector to efficiently manage resources while keeping the public sector to a bare minimum. Additionally, faster legal settlements, proper regulatory mechanisms, and comprehensive understanding of natural resource allocation are crucial. When these processes are effectively managed by technocrats, it creates a more resilient and transparent system that can reduce corruption over time.

Electorate’s Role in Promoting Transparency and Efficiency

A mature electorate should be critical in their approach to select their leaders. They should not solely view corruption as an issue of one party. Instead, they should evaluate the effectiveness of governance not just on the basis of their own party's actions but also on the overall improvement in processes. The electorate should question whether it is still associating corruption with a single party, whether there has been a decrease in money power in elections, and if they are more comfortable with political divisions based on religion, caste, region, or language. It is also important to consider whether majoritarianism is being realistically addressed, and to reflect on whether long-term collective good is being prioritized.

Evaluating the Governance Records of Different Administrations

Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, known as MMS, had the opportunity to address several corruption-related issues, but it remains uncertain whether there has been a significant reduction in corruption. Directly linking politicians to corruption is a serious issue, and equally important is the focus on how these processes can be made more robust. While some actions have been taken by the current government, there is a need for a more proactive approach to governance rather than focusing solely on trapping the opposition. The government's handling of significant economic policies and subsequent justifications have not been satisfactory, leaving much to be desired.

Creating a National Agenda for Long-Term Growth

A country of India's size and potential cannot afford to give up on governance reforms. Well-meaning citizens should come together to establish a national agenda that focuses on long-term collective good. This involves making clear choices about the type of prime minister or ministerial leaders they would support. People should reject the influence of money power and divisive politics, and instead, hold political parties accountable for following an agenda that reflects the needs and aspirations of the nation. To achieve this, the electorate should encourage parties to field candidates and cabinets proposed by them, rather than accepting what is thrust upon them by the parties.

Conclusion: Moving Forward Together

While challenging, the development of a robust and transparent governance framework is crucial for sustained growth. By engaging actively and making informed decisions, citizens can contribute to a more resilient and effective political system. The path to improvement lies in a concerted effort by both the electorate and the government to prioritize long-term collective good and address the root causes of corruption and ineffectiveness.