Corruption & Extortion

There is no doubt that the Northeastern region is plagued by the chronic problem of corruption and extortion. One does not have to go far to witness how this two menace has become a sort of ‘industry’ in the region. And New Delhi is aware about this ill. Union Home Secretary GK Pillai during a recent visit to Manipur and Nagaland admitted that the Government of India was aware that insurgents were mushrooming in the region only for extortion and causing suffering to the people. He even went on to say that extortion has become a “cottage industry” in the region that has led to the mushrooming up of many insurgent organisations. And then there is the corruption. The huge funds coming from Delhi is being misused at different levels. It is clear that there are enough funds available for development of the Northeastern States. And it is not that development funds are available only now—they have been flowing in since ages. But it is sad that even after more than 40-50 years nothing has changed much in terms of economic progress leave alone the basic development needs such as proper roads, access to health care etc.
And if the decades of fund allocations had been used in a judicious manner the region should have reached a higher level of economic growth that is at par with some of the more developed States in the country. But all of us know that this is not the case. The fact is that the huge sums of money as funds are not being utilized for its stated objective i.e. to develop and sustain enterprise. And so the question is asked: Where is the development? The big plans afoot for the mega projects, especially in education, healthcare, roads, electricity and water supply has to go beyond the paper exercise. But we know the harsh reality of the region where politicians and armed outfits act as a barrier to development. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has come out with startling disclosures about the different forms of nexus involving the powerful and those whose interest is entrenched.  
Closer home in Nagaland, the script is the same if not worse. Today, dishonesty and the unending greed for money and power have destroyed the moral fiber of our society. There is widespread corruption and the primary objective of everyone is clearly on swindling public money and amassing more and more wealth. In all this melee and aggrandizement the biggest loser is Nagaland, its development and the vast majority of its people who continue to live as second class citizens. It is quite ironic that while our Ministers emphasize on quality when it comes to building our roads, bridges and other assets, yet they encourage the culture of paying commissions by demanding the same. There are unconfirmed reports that deductions and collections of irregular commission altogether amounts to more than 25% of the contractual works. This is not only corruption but amounts to ‘extortions’. While everyone wants development to take place, it is doubtful if this can be achieved given the high cost involved in servicing corruption and extortions. We must remember that we depend overwhelmingly on Central assistance. For this unnecessary wasteful expenditure must be cut. But the truth of the matter is that we living beyond our means. Cost cutting measures wherever possible should be taken and this could begin by reducing corruption and extortion at the highest level.