The Enduring Legacy of Corruption: Insights from ‘Boforsgate’

Tavleen Singh reviews ‘Boforsgate’ by Chitra Subramaniam, highlighting its significance in exposing the deep-seated corruption in Indian politics stemming from the Bofors scandal. The book reveals the nexus between politicians and criminals, detailing the ongoing issues that affect the political landscape today. It raises concerns about the lack of accountability and the safety of journalists. Singh urges for revelation and transparency from political leaders.

In her book ‘Boforsgate,’ Chitra Subramaniam details the significant implications of political corruption in India, stemming from the infamous Bofors scandal. Her fearless investigative journalism revealed the bribes paid by Bofors to secure arms deals with the Indian army, which not only threatened national security but also showcased a deep-rooted nexus among politicians, criminals, and compliant officials. Subramaniam’s relentless pursuit of truth underscores a broader narrative about corruption persisting in the political landscape.

I began my journey as a political columnist during Rajiv Gandhi’s premiership, recalling the aftermath of the Bofors allegations when Swedish state radio unveiled bribery claims in 1987. The swift attempts to erase the money trail echoed corrupt practices that had long plagued political circles. The intimate connections between Rajiv Gandhi and those implicated, including Ottavio Quattrocchi, became evident as allegations surfaced regarding hidden accounts.

‘Boforsgate’ illustrates how such corruption remains a glaring issue today, with political figures often driven by monetary gain rather than public service. The familial passing down of political power creates a disturbing cycle where wealth accumulation takes precedence. The scandal introduced a new political culture, culminating in widespread disillusionment, as seen in the 1989 election loss for Rajiv Gandhi, largely attributed to the Bofors scandal’s fallout.

Despite promises from leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi to tackle corruption, investigations have stalled. Documents available since 1997 remain untouched, leaving many questioning the motives behind the lack of action. There exists a concerning bipartisan consensus among politicians, and media scrutiny has diminished significantly, raising fears of journalists facing dire consequences for exposing corruption.

Chitra Subramaniam exemplifies courage in investigative journalism, yet her safety remains a question in a country marked by political turmoil. Contrary to perceptions that media pressure began under Modi, challenges existed long before. The atmosphere of heightened intolerance towards criticism has resulted in a significant curtailing of journalistic freedom, leaving citizens to ponder the unresolved ramifications of Boforsgate.

‘Boforsgate’ serves as a reminder to challenge the status quo and seek accountability among our political leaders. Transparency is paramount, and Prime Minister Modi should take action regarding the untapped evidence of corruption.

In conclusion, ‘Boforsgate’ is a crucial exploration of the persistent issues of corruption within Indian politics. It highlights the connections among prominent figures and raises concerns about the absence of accountability in political practices. Subramaniam’s work is a clarion call for transparency, urging a collective demand for scrutiny and actions against corrupt practices, essential for restoring public trust in governance.

Original Source: www.financialexpress.com