A step against dirty politics – International Anti Corruption Day

Corruption is dishonest or immoral behavior &/or activities, or it’s the process of making somebody corrupt. It is a serious crime that causes deterioration of the social and economic development in all societies. 

Neither any country nor any community or religion is immune from corruption. Corruption is found in all parts, whether it is a political, social, or economic institution. It causes government instability and slows down the economic development of a country.

In December 2003, the United Nations took the first step to fight against this serious crime. They passed a law called the - United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). 

This law was drafted on 31st December 2003 and came into effect from 14th December 2005. 

Since then, December-9 is celebrated as International Anti Corruption Day every year.

Steps by INDIA

• The central vigilance commission is an independent body that advises and assists the executive matters relating to corruption.
• Related legislation like the Right to Information Act, Prevention of Corruption act, The Judges Inquiry act, etc.
• Ratification of United Nations Conviction Against Corruption in 2011.
• Introduction of E-governance and direct benefit scheme. 

How is it Celebrated?

The objective of International Anti-Corruption Day-- political leaders, government, legal bodies, and educational institutions work together against the practice of corruption by promoting the event and its issues. 

Various activities that promote the day include :

• Dance - drama and musical plays to publicize the message of fighting against corruption.
• Speeches by those who suffered because of the corruption, or fought against it.
• Essay writing competition on this malpractice.
• Distribution of Posters, Flyers, and other materials to increase awareness of the levels of corruption.
• Various organizations hold some special recognition ceremony to pay tribute to the people who fought against corruption or devised ways for the common people to do so

Conclusion

Attitudes on corruption are changing. As recently as ten years ago, the topic of corruption was only whispered around. 

Today there are signs of growing intolerance towards corruption, and more politicians and chief executives are being tried and convicted if found indulging in such malpractices.

-Written by:

Ms. Gunjan Malhotra (Batch- 2017)