Tackling corruption within the BBMP is a Herculean task. One can talk of transparency and accountability, but a lot of systematic changes are required to translate this to ground realities.
One of the ways is to use more technology and promote e-governance. Many State departments use e-procurement for awarding contracts. All the information should be online and bids are received online. There will be no scope for mischief in engineering and health-related works.
Even automating for processes such as building plan sanctions can go a long way in controlling corruption. Similarly, GPS to track garbage truck movement and monitoring contractors should be universally implemented.
Apart from this, the involvement of people and free flow of information is important. A system for social audit, involving residents or associations or experts of integrity, should be in place. If a road is being constructed, citizens can see for themselves if it is up to the prescribed standards. A report on the expenditures announced in the budget – which should be drawn up only after pubic consultation – should be released every three months. It is when information is available freely, and is tamper-proof, can tabs be kept on corruption.
Having a Comptroller and Auditor General-like (CAG) institution for the BBMP can help check financial irregularities. The checks and balances for corporators come from voters, but for bureaucrats, this institution can play a major role.
The Bangalore Metropolitan Task Force needs to become more independent. The operation of the force depends on the person helming it, and a review by the State government can ensure follow-up on cases that have been booked.
(As told to Mohit M. Rao)
