The article reflects on ‘Boforsgate’, an important book by Chitra Subramaniam, detailing the Bofors scandal that exposed deep-seated corruption in Indian politics. It emphasizes the risks taken by investigative journalists in pursuing the truth and raises concerns about the ongoing culture of corruption and media suppression under current and past political regimes. Several key figures and events tied to this scandal illustrate the political ramifications that echoed through India’s political landscape.
Last week, I finished reading ‘Boforsgate’ by Chitra Subramaniam, a pivotal book that unveils India’s political corruption. Without her tenacious investigative journalism, the scandal involving bribes paid by Bofors to Indian officials would have remained obscured. Chitra risked her personal and professional life to bring this truth to light, highlighting the parallel reality of corruption and criminality that permeates Indian politics.
My career as a political columnist began during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, allowing me to recall vividly the events surrounding the Bofors scandal. The revelation in April 1987 from Swedish state radio about the bribes unleashed a concerted effort to suppress the evidence linking the money trail to prominent politicians. Ottavio Quattrocchi, a close associate of the Gandhis, became notorious for his influence during this period, hinting at the intricate web of corruption that enveloped the highest echelons of power.
‘Boforsgate’ is crucial because corruption continues to plague Indian politics, which is often seen as a lucrative path for quick wealth. Many politicians, especially heirs of established political families, accrue substantial wealth, funding lavish lifestyles abroad, which fosters a toxic political culture originating from the Bofors affair. This situation is particularly alarming as it jeopardizes national integrity and accountability.
The Bofors scandal marked a turning point, revealing for the first time a direct affinity between nepotism, bribery, and governance. Rajiv Gandhi’s denial of his family’s involvement did little to assuage public sentiment, significantly impacting the elections of 1989. Outrage over the scandal echoed through rural India, manifesting in folk songs which criticized foreign influence on governance.
During Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s administration, there were attempts to revive the Bofors investigation; however, interest dwindled over time. Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite his promises to combat corruption, has seemingly overlooked the necessity to pursue this case, a fact echoed by Chitra who lamented the stagnant status of crucial documentation trapped in CBI archives for decades.
The complicity among political figures, irrespective of party lines, raises troubling questions about the integrity of governance in India. Furthermore, the press’s ability to expose wrongdoing has been severely curtailed in recent years, resulting in a climate where pursuing truth is perilous for journalists. The atmosphere of intimidation that now exists poses a significant challenge for investigative reporting.
Chitra Subramaniam is indeed a remarkable investigative journalist deserving of recognition, yet one cannot help but wonder if she could have maintained her safety had she remained in India instead of relocating to Switzerland. Claims that media repression is a recent development under Modi’s rule overlook the longstanding challenges journalists have faced in India. The current environment has simply intensified the risk associated with holding power accountable, as evident in the alarming conformity among media outlets.
Ultimately, ‘Boforsgate’ compels us to reflect on the ongoing political culture of corruption in India. It urges a re-evaluation of the mechanisms that facilitate such malfeasance and calls for greater transparency and accountability from leaders. Prime Minister Modi must consider acting on the accumulated evidence regarding Bofors, which awaits investigation to restore integrity in governance.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed herein are personal and do not reflect the official stance or policy of FinancialExpress.com. Unauthorized reproduction of this material is prohibited.
The discussion highlights the enduring issue of political corruption in India, tracing its roots to the Bofors scandal. Chitra Subramaniam’s work serves as a critical reminder of the systemic issues facing the nation’s governance. The complicit behavior of political leaders, compounded by a silenced media, signifies that the fight against corruption remains unresolved, necessitating continued vigilance and reform.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
