“Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption”. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer. (UPSC 2019, 10 Marks, )

EN ह

Corruption is a widespread problem that undermines the functioning of governments and public institutions.

Non-performance of duty refers to the failure of a public servant to fulfill their responsibilities and obligations.

It can manifest in various forms, such as negligence, inefficiency, deliberate delay, or intentional avoidance of duties.

In my views: Non-performance of duty is a manifestation of corruption.

Non-performance of duty involves the failure to fulfill one's obligations and responsibilities.

It represents a breach of trust and an abuse of power, similar to other forms of corruption.

Here is my justification:

1. Corruption as a Broader Concept:

Corruption encompasses a wide range of dishonest or unethical behaviors, including bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, and abuse of power.

 Non-performance of duty falls under the umbrella of corruption because it involves the misuse or non-utilization of entrusted power or authority.

2. Dereliction of Responsibilities:

 When individuals fail to fulfill their duties and responsibilities, it can be considered a form of corruption because it undermines the functioning and effectiveness of an organization or system.

 Example: A police officer neglecting to investigate a reported crime.

3. Personal gain and favoritism

 Non-performance of duty can be driven by personal gain or favoritism, wherein public officials may intentionally neglect their responsibilities in exchange for bribes, kickbacks, or other benefits.

 This form of corruption diverts resources away from their intended purposes and undermines fair and transparent governance.

4. Abuse of Power

Non-performance of duty often involves an abuse of power or authority, where individuals prioritize personal interests over the greater good, which is the ultimate cause of corruption.

Example: A supervisor who intentionally overlooks safety regulations to speed up production.

5. Enabling corruption

Non-performance of duty creates opportunities for other forms of corruption to thrive.

When public servants fail to carry out their responsibilities, it paves the way for bribery, fraud, embezzlement, and other corrupt practices to flourish.

6. Impact on governance and public trust

Non-performance of duty undermines the effectiveness and legitimacy of governance systems.

When public officials neglect their duties, it erodes public trust in the government and institutions.

7. Supported by many Thinkers:

 Max Weber discussed the concept of bureaucratic corruption, which includes non-performance of duty. He highlighted how corruption can manifest in the form of inefficient bureaucracies where officials neglect their responsibilities.

 Mahatma Gandhi believed that non-performance of duty was a betrayal of the trust placed in individuals by society, which is a root of corruption.

Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption because it involves the abuse or non-utilization of entrusted power and authority.

It undermines public trust, hampers service delivery, and perpetuates inequality.

Addressing non-performance of duty requires robust anti-corruption measures, accountability, and efforts to foster a culture of integrity among public servants.