Bangalore: Our society today is overwhelmed with many evils. Corruption has reached unprecedented proportions and is all pervasive. Scams are unfolding on a regular basis and the sums involved are so staggering that the common man cannot even comprehend its magnitude. India ranks 4th in the list of most corrupt countries according to a recent survey. Greed has become the creed of our system today, affecting all sections of society and best exemplified by the people who wield power – politicians and corporates alike. An ordinary citizen cannot get his due rights without bribing the officials said Dr. Belgami Muhammad Saad, Secretary Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Karnataka Zone here in a press conference.
He further added As the economy grows poverty and depravation are also on the rise. Violence, injustice, oppression and discrimination are commonplace. Dishonesty, deception, duplicity, adulteration, black marketing and such other unhealthy practices are shortcuts for quick money. Nepotism, exploitation, blackmail, lack of accountability and transparency are rife in public office. Criminalisation of politics, commercialization of education and corporatisation of economy is ever rising.
There is growing public anger, frustration and restlessness that have found expression in movements like the India Against Corruption. At this juncture, it is the duty of every citizen to recognize the seriousness of the situation and act responsibly to reform the society, especially in eradication of corruption from our country.
Jamaat-e-Islami Hind in keeping with its long tradition of working tirelessly for the welfare of the nation is undertaking a 10 day long campaign across the state of Karnataka with the theme “Towards Evil Free Society” especially focussing on the menace of corruption and means to overcome it. Meetings, rallies, symposia and lectures are being held throughout the state. Folders and booklets are being distributed on a large scale. Moulana Farooq Khan, an eminent cleric from Delhi and a central leader of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind will be presiding over a dialogue of religious heads and VIP’s on ‘Role of Religion in Eradicating Corruption’ on 17th December, 10 a.m. at KAS Hall, Infantry Road. There will also be a symposium attended by eminent personalities like Justice retired Rajendra Babu, Prof. Prasanna Kumar, Basava Samithi, Mrs. B T Lalita Naik, Ex Minister Govt. of Karnataka Etc and presided by the Maulana on 18th of December, 10 a.m. at BIFT – COS Hall, Darus Salaam Complex, Queens Road, Bangalore on the topic ‘Mechanics of Corruption – Search for Solutions’
In this background we would like to draw the attention of all concerned citizens to the following points for necessary action.
i. Corruption is a manifestation of the underlying disease of greed, selfishness, dishonesty, injustice and materialistic outlook. We need a holistic approach to solve the problem.
ii. Fundamental to the solution of the problem is to strengthen the moral conscience of the individual and create an environment where corruption is viewed as a crime and a sin. India is a country where religion and spirituality is respected and revered. God consciousness, fear of God and sense of accountability for one’s actions needs to be developed and inculcated in all citizens.
iii. The existing institutions like the Lokayukta, Anti-Corruption Bureau, CBI, CVC, Enforcement Agencies, etc. need to be given due powers and freedom and allowed to work with fairness, justice, swiftness and sincerity.
iv. The Lokpal Bill under debate should be passed after proper discussion in the Parliament with due constitutional safeguards. However, legislation alone is no answer to this hydra-headed monster.
v. Every individual should make a determined effort to cleanse our own lives before we set out to put the society in order. We should resolve neither to pay nor receive bribe in any form or manner.
vi. The age old social, racial and economic inequalities and discrimination in our country is being made worse by the ever growing corporatisation of our economy, the recent example being the proposed FDI in retail sector. These are important causes and promoters of corruption that should be opposed. A balanced and inclusive growth with justice to all is a prerequisite for a peaceful and just society.
vii. The fair minded and well-meaning citizens in our society need to be more organised and proactive in these causes and not just be silent spectators, allowing evils to engulf the society.
Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, President Majlis-ul-Ulema and Dr. Muhammad Taha Mateen, President, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Bangalore Metro were also present in the press conference.
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