When we are young and are in school/college, we are very enthusiastic about changing the systems around us.
We are determined to eradicate the problems from the systems.
We hate corruption.
We want to punish each and every one who is a part of the corrupt systems.
Every generation thinks similar.
But when they enter into the system, instead of challenging the system, they too become a part of the same system.
They too start corruption. Though, means are different but ends are same.
Now the responsibility is shifted to the next generation.
And the history repeats itself.
Today's Story:
I went to railway station to book a Tatkal ticket.
I thought, its pretty early, I must be the first one in the queue.
But to my surprise, the three queues had more than ten people each.
So there was no way that I could get a tatkal ticket. (Supply-Demand economics fail here. Why?? Due to lack of resources??).
Some people told me that the queues are full because many of the people in these queues are agents who are there since midnight. So the general public is unable to avail this Tatkal service and the agents generate a lot of black money. Moreover the people at the booking counter know this very well but they are unable to take any action due to two reasons.
Reason 1: There is nothing illegal in this practice because you cann't prove anything. Anyone can book ticket for anyone else. The agents, when caught, will give excuse that they are booking tickets for their relatives.
Reason 2: The booking officers at the windows usually charge something from the agents who come daily. So win-win situation for both these parties and the general public loses.
I was annoyed and frustrated.
I rushed to the Station Dy. Superintendent.
He smiled at me and gave me the Reason 1.
Plus he also told that none of the booking officers accept more than one reservation form.
But I argued that this is not a solution.
He replied, even he has to ask these agents for booking. Difference is that he has to pay a lesser amount as compared to the other people.
Moreover you can't do anything.
One of his colleagues came and boasted that even he accepts bribe but no one can do anything about it.
This is 'THE SYSTEM"
You can't do anything.
I was frustrated and exhausted.
There came the Commercial Inspector of the Station for my rescue.
He accompanied me to the reservation counters and talked to reservation officers about my complaint.
They also gave the Reason 1 and indicated that they are unable to do anything in this regard.
Then commercial Inspector asked them to at least book my ticket on priority. One of the booking officers agreed to do that.
At 8:00 A.M., I got my reservation which seemed impossible a few minutes earlier.
NOW
I HAVE A FEW QUESTIONS
Was I bribed with a reserved ticket because I complained??
Don't you think I became a part of the system??
Where is my determination and enthusiasm to fight against corruption??
The status quo is maintained and the agents will continue to generate a lot of black money.
I am totally lost now.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
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Practically speaking till the time human beings r there, crime, corruption on one hand and people doing good work will always be there..absolute zero in either of them cannot be expected
ReplyDeleteWhat can be done is at the personal level, we neither take bribe or give it.. In all moments which hv come up..i hv personally lost more than 55000 rs..but hv avoided paying bribe.. I am delighted at ur attempt... keep the same buddy
Being an outsider to this particular situation i would say the there was a possibility to carry it forward..but its human to be happy when our comfort is secured...may be its time for you to take things to the next level if and when an opportunity presents...kudos for the initiative u took and i hope u step up the gas next time!!
ReplyDeleteThat is why this is called "kalyug", gone are the days bro..
ReplyDelete