In ‘Boforsgate’, Chitra Subramaniam illustrates the deep-rooted corruption in Indian politics stemming from the Bofors scandal, which involved bribery linked to high-ranking politicians. The fallout from these events highlights a persistent culture of corruption within India’s political system, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparent investigations into past crimes. Singh critiques the current political climate, stressing the importance of investigative journalism and broader media freedom in shining a light on ongoing issues.
In her book ‘Boforsgate,’ investigative journalist Chitra Subramaniam reveals the corruption surrounding Bofors’ arms deals with India, shedding light on the political system where officials, corrupt politicians, and criminals operate. Her bold pursuit of the truth, despite grave personal risks, highlights the dark underbelly of Indian politics stemming from the Bofors scandal.
The narrative traces back to 1987, when Bofors was accused of bribing Indian officials to secure a significant arms contract, leading to a political scandal that involved prominent figures such as Rajiv Gandhi and Ottavio Quattrocchi. Following the revelation of bribes, Quattrocchi left India, and the scandal significantly influenced public perception and political outcomes, notably contributing to Gandhi’s electoral loss in 1989.
Singh argues that the Bofors scandal marked a turning point, exemplifying how corruption became embedded in Indian political culture, with politicians prioritizing wealth over public service. This culture persists today, where political dynasties amass wealth and maintain a grip on power, undermining accountability.
Despite possessing crucial evidence since 1997, politicians have largely ignored the necessary investigations into the Bofors case. The apparent indifference from leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raises questions about the bipartisan nature of political corruption, revealing a troubling consensus among politicians.
The article highlights the dangers faced by journalists in India when covering corruption, noting that media pressure has existed long before Modi’s tenure. The increasing restrictions on journalistic criticism signal a troubling trend, where independent reporting is cleverly managed, obscuring public awareness of true governmental transgressions.
Singh calls for a revival of inquiries into the Bofors case, urging Modi to release the information stashed away in government archives, which could deepen the public’s understanding of political accountability. Chitra’s work serves as a crucial reminder of the role of investigative journalism in exposing corruption and demanding transparency.
Tavleen Singh emphasizes the enduring legacy of the Bofors scandal as a foundational moment for understanding corruption in Indian politics. The suppression of investigations and media pressure reveals a complex relationship between power and accountability. With a historical perspective, the article underscores the need for renewed inquiries into political corruption, advocating for transparency in governance. Singh’s piece calls for both public awareness and journalistic bravery to confront political malfeasance.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
