Lessons from India: The Need for Accountability and Discipline

India stands as a complex and diverse nation, where the juxtaposition of progress and societal challenges often comes to the forefront. One area that frequently garners public attention is the behavior and actions of its citizens, which sometimes fall short of high ethical standards. In this article, we will explore several critical issues in India, including the need for ethical governance, the importance of accountability, and the urgency for societal discipline.

The Norm of Corrupt Politicians

First and foremost, India faces a significant challenge in normalizing corrupt politicians who continue to hold positions of power despite widespread opposition. This phenomenon underscores the extent to which citizens accept and even tacitly support unethical behavior in governance. The persistence of corrupt politicians, who often benefit from a system that perpetuates their hold on power, is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. It is essential for India to establish stringent measures to ensure that politicians uphold ethical standards and are held accountable for their actions.

Government Corruption as a Reality

Apart from corrupt politicians, there is the issue of government officials accepting and enjoying bribes. This behavior undermines public trust and negatively impacts the operations of the state. It is vital for government officials to understand that their position is a public trust and not a platform for personal enrichment. Encouraging ethical practices and stricter penalties for corrupt officials can help to stem this tide and restore public confidence in the governance system.

The Over-Expansion of Educational Institutions

Another critical issue in India is the excessive expansion of colleges, particularly in the field of engineering. The increase in the number of educational institutions has not necessarily translated into better employment outcomes. Instead, it has often led to a glut of graduates in the job market, resulting in higher unemployment rates and underutilization of human resources. The focus should be on enhancing the quality of education rather than merely expanding the number of educational institutions. This can be achieved through stricter accreditation standards and better alignment of educational programs with industry needs.

Religion as a Tool for Political Gain

Religion often serves a divisive role in Indian politics, with political parties using it to mobilize support and gain votes. This practice not only undermines the secular fabric of the nation but also contributes to social divisions. It is crucial for political leaders to promote inclusive and secular policies that benefit all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations. Building a nation where politics is rooted in national interests, rather than religious ones, is vital for national unity and progress.

The Tragedy of Husky Ownership in India

While the challenges faced by citizens are numerous, it is equally important to address the peculiarities of certain issues in the country. One such example is the ownership of Siberian Huskies, a breed that thrives in cooler climates. It is a common misconception among pet owners that Huskies can adapt to any climate. However, they are not well-suited to the tropical and hot climates of India, where they may suffer from heat stress and other health problems. Responsible pet ownership requires a deep understanding of the breed's needs and living conditions.

The Pursuit of Unlimited Freedom

India is often celebrated for its freedoms, but it is crucial to recognize that unbridled freedom without accountability can lead to significant social and ethical issues. Indian citizens enjoy freedoms that are often misunderstood and misused. For instance, the freedom to litter, break rules, and use public places as personal property are some of the more visible manifestations of this issue. However, these freedoms come at a cost, often resulting in public space being cluttered with waste, rule-breaking behavior, personal encroachments, and vandalism.

Violations of Traffic Rules

The issue of traffic violations is another serious concern in India. Traffic accidents, which claim thousands of lives annually, serve as a stark reminder of the reckless behavior of many drivers. While government policies and road conditions play a role, the primary responsibility lies with individual citizens. Better adherence to traffic rules, such as wearing helmets, driving safely, and following speed limits, can significantly reduce traffic accidents and save lives.

Respect for Monuments and Public Property

There is also a widespread lack of respect for public monuments and property. Monuments, symbols of a nation's cultural heritage, often suffer from defacement and vandalism, which is a direct assault on the country's cultural identity. Similarly, the destruction of public property during protest events further exacerbates the issue. It is imperative for citizens to understand the significance of these structures and to refrain from damaging them.

Bullying and Raging in Colleges

The issue of ragging, or bullying, in higher educational institutions is another concerning trend. The practice, often rebranded as socialization, has been criticized for its negative impact on the emotional well-being of students. The absence of strict measures against such behavior can have long-lasting effects on students' mental health and academic performance.

Respecting Personal Space and Privacy

The violation of personal space and privacy is another issue that needs attention. Citizens often overstep boundaries, leading to uncomfortable situations. It is essential for individuals to respect the personal space of others and to ensure that their actions do not infringe upon the rights and comfort of others.

Recording Others Without Permission

The digital age has led to an increase in unregulated video recording, leading to privacy violations. While vlogging is popular, it is crucial to respect the privacy of others by obtaining their consent before recording. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups who may feel intimidated or coerced into sharing their content.

Spitting and Public Hygiene

The act of spitting in public, especially after consuming betel nut (pan/ tobacco), is yet another nuisance. Such behavior not only contributes to public health issues but also diminishes the dignity of the individual and the broader societal image. Efforts to promote public hygiene and discourage such behavior are essential.

It is clear that while India is a country with immense potential, it must address these issues of ethical governance, accountability, and societal discipline to achieve a more responsible and respectful society. As citizens, it is our responsibility to advocate for these changes and to set higher standards for ourselves and others. Only through collective effort can we build a nation that is both prosperous and ethically sound.