Spineless babus

Sir — This refers to the article, “Babus of same corrupt feather flock together” (June 30) by Joginder Singh. The writer has correctly identified the systemic ills present in the system, with his experiences in dealing with matters related to corruption in public service and in the role played by bureaucrats occupying higher positions who are close to the decision-making level.

The earlier immunity provided to civil servants, against direct prosecution for taking bold decisions, seems to have been misused with the tacit support of their brethren and political masters. Only at the behest of the Supreme Court, their sins get exposed. lack of accountability and professional ethics, coupled with greed for power and pelf, have played havoc with the public delivery system. 

The allurement of post-retirement jobs makes bureaucrats even more pliable to the party in power. To curry favours, these babus are willing to go to any distance to bend the rules to please their political masters.