Rampant bribery in public sectors undermines meritocracy and breeds inequality. There is dire need for ethical reform and integrity to combat corruption.

As we advance in every sphere of our lives, seeking new and improved methods that make our work easier and simpler, we often prefer comfort over hardship, which is a natural instinct. However, this preference can sometimes lead us to engage in illegal activities, with corruption being a prominent example. Corruption involves misusing power for personal gain, often taking the form of bribery, where money, gifts, or other benefits are offered to influence the actions of those in positions of power. In Kashmir, this practice is colloquially referred to as “Chai”. This term does not denote the traditional Kashmiri or Lipton tea but rather represents a form of bribery involving money and gifts.

The “Chai” system is prevalent across all sectors, particularly within the government. Despite receiving a monthly salary, many government employees remain dissatisfied and seek additional compensation through “Chai”. This practice spans from low-ranking peons to high-level bureaucrats, affecting every level of the government. It is visible in various public offices and institutions. For instance, in hospitals, doctors might request “Chai” after performing successful operations, particularly in sensitive cases such as childbirth. Similarly, clerks and officers in the revenue department may demand “Chai” for processing bills, while judges and orderlies in the courts might solicit “Chai” for favorable judgments or expedited case handling. Even in banks, account officers may request “Chai” to prioritize services.

Employees are legally obligated to perform their duties within their jurisdiction, regardless of the task’s size. However, they may still ask for “Chai” to expedite the process. This “Chai” involves offering money, which is often only affordable to financially well-off individuals, thus exploiting poorer people. The detrimental nature of the “Chai” system extends beyond mere inefficiency; it has replaced the merit system in recruitment processes. Officers in power frequently prefer to recruit their personal candidates over more deserving individuals, violating Article 16 of the Constitution, which guarantees equal opportunity in public employment. This corruption has led to significant frustration among deserving students. Exams are designed to select the most capable and skilled candidates, but the “Chai” system often places those who offer bribes at the top of the list, while deserving candidates are left behind.

We witnessed this recently in the NEET exams, where leaked papers were sold for substantial amounts. Consider how a student from a very poor background, who worked very hard to secure a medical seat, would feel upon discovering that the exam papers had been leaked. The “Chai” system has discouraged many aspiring candidates from pursuing further studies and exams, as they are well aware that only those who offer “Chai” are likely to be selected. Despite the existence of numerous anti-corruption laws, such as the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988, the Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002, and IPC 1860, the irony is that those tasked with enforcing these laws are often themselves corrupt.

It is crucial to acknowledge that corruption is not limited to public officers but also involves individuals who contribute to this corruption by offering bribes. Our preference for comfort over hardship often drives us to engage in such practices. I believe the only way to overcome this menace is to bring about a change in ourselves, particularly by cultivating patience. As Allah mentions in the Quran, “Indeed, I am with the patient ones.” By being patient, we can better tolerate hardships and refrain from engaging in illegal means. As Muslims, this “Chai” system does not suit us. We must adhere to the teachings of the Holy Quran and Prophet Muhammad (SAW), making him our role model. By doing so, we can follow his path, live a pious life, and ultimately avoid indulging in this corrupt system.

To truly combat the “Chai” system and its impact, it is essential to foster a cultural shift towards meritocracy and integrity. Educational institutions, recruitment agencies, and public offices must implement stringent measures to ensure transparency and fairness. Additionally, there must be increased public awareness and education on the detrimental effects of bribery and corruption. Moreover, fostering a culture of honesty and accountability at every level of society is crucial. This involves not only adhering to legal standards but also embracing moral principles that emphasize fairness and respect for others. By collectively rejecting the “Chai” system and embracing ethical conduct, we can create a more just and equitable society.

The writer is pursuing BA LLB (4th Semester) at the University of Kashmir

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Basit Rasool Thokero