In every corner of Punjab today—from tea stalls in small villages to the busy streets of Ludhiana and Amritsar—one common topic dominates public discussion: corruption. It has become so deeply rooted in the system that people no longer express surprise; instead, they sigh with helpless acceptance. What was once seen as a shameful act has, over the years, become a way of life in administrative and political circles. The disease of corruption is now spreading like cancer, eating away at the moral fabric of society and threatening the future of the state.
The most worrying aspect is that this menace seems to have grown beyond the government’s control. Despite tall promises and repeated announcements about transparency and clean governance, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. The problem is not merely within the bureaucracy—it has political roots. Politicians themselves are often seen shielding corrupt officials, using them for personal or party gains. When those in power have vested interests, how can they truly fight the system they themselves benefit from? This political protection has made corruption not only survive but thrive.
Punjab, once known for its honesty, hard work, and integrity, now finds itself battling moral decay. The people are losing faith in public institutions. Many citizens feel that even the most genuine government schemes are derailed by middlemen and corrupt officials who demand their share before any work is done. From land records to police departments, from revenue offices to municipal committees—everywhere the common man faces hurdles unless he is willing to “pay the price.”
It is time for the government to recognize that slogans and promises are not enough. The only way to control corruption is to identify and empower honest officers who are still loyal to their duties and committed to serving the people. Punjab still has many such officers—those who refuse bribes, work with sincerity, and believe in the rule of law—but they are often sidelined or transferred for not cooperating with corrupt politicians. The government must protect these upright officers and give them authority to act fearlessly.
History reminds us that Punjab was not always like this. During the tenure of Mr. Jai Sukh Lal Hathi, who once served as the Governor of Punjab, the state witnessed a period of discipline, integrity, and efficient governance. Under his watch, corruption was minimal, and there was a strong sense of accountability among government employees. Even the markets were cleaner—there was no adulteration of food products, and public services functioned with a sense of honesty rarely seen today.
That era serves as a lesson that when leadership is honest and firm, the system automatically aligns itself with discipline. What Punjab needs today is not another political promise but a moral revival—an awakening that places honesty above personal gain. Unless this change begins at the top, corruption will continue to poison the system, spreading deeper until it destroys what little faith people still have in governance.
The choice before Punjab is clear: either continue to tolerate corruption and watch the system rot further, or stand behind those rare honest officers who still uphold integrity. The fight against corruption is not just a political issue—it is a fight for the soul of Punjab.