Q17. ‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The establishment of a national Lokpal, an anti-corruption institution at the national level, was envisioned to combat corruption in public offices and bring about transparency and accountability in governance. However, while it holds the potential to address systemic corruption, it cannot single-handedly resolve the deeper issue of immorality in public affairs. Corruption often stems from a larger social and moral framework that goes beyond just institutional reforms.

Body

Reasons Why Lokpal Alone Cannot Resolve Immorality:

• Structural Issues: Corruption in public affairs is often deeply entrenched in the structural fabric of governance, involving political, bureaucratic, and societal dimensions. The Lokpal can investigate and recommend action, but it cannot directly eliminate the root causes of unethical practices, such as inadequate political will, poor governance, and lack of transparency.
• Dependence on Political Will: The success of the Lokpal is heavily reliant on political support and cooperation from other governmental institutions. Without genuine commitment from political leaders, even a strong Lokpal would struggle to function effectively.
• Moral and Ethical Change: Immorality in public life is not only a legal or procedural issue but also a moral and cultural one. Public officials may act unethically due to personal greed, societal pressures, or lack of accountability. Institutional mechanisms alone cannot change the underlying values or ethical conduct of individuals.
• Ineffective Implementation: Even with a national Lokpal, enforcement of its decisions may be slow or diluted by bureaucratic inefficiency, lack of resources, and legal hurdles.

Conclusion

‍While a national Lokpal can play a crucial role in tackling corruption and ensuring accountability, it cannot be a panacea for immorality in public affairs. A comprehensive approach, including ethical education, political reform, and societal awareness, is required to address the broader issues of governance and morality.

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