The statement that in the absence of a merit-based, fair, and objective civil service, a more partisan and corrupt government will emerge can be justified for several reasons:
- Lack of Competence: A merit-based civil service ensures that individuals with the necessary qualifications, skills, and expertise are appointed to positions based on their abilities rather than political affiliations. When merit is compromised, and appointments are made based on partisan considerations, there is a higher likelihood of placing individuals who may not possess the required competence for their roles.
- Increased Political Interference: A fair and objective civil service is designed to be politically neutral and serve the best interests of the public. However, without these principles in place, a partisan government may prioritize loyalty to the ruling party over serving the broader population. This can lead to increased political interference in administrative decisions, favoritism towards party supporters, and the use of public resources for partisan purposes. Such actions can undermine transparency, accountability, and overall trust in the government.
- Erosion of Integrity and Accountability: A merit-based civil service promotes integrity and accountability in the public sector. When individuals are appointed based on their qualifications and track record, there is a higher likelihood of them adhering to professional standards and ethical practices. Conversely, in a system where appointments are driven by political patronage, corruption can thrive. This can erode public trust and confidence in the government, as citizens may perceive that their interests are being undermined in favour of political gain.
- Institutionalized Corruption: A fair and objective civil service acts as a check against corruption by implementing transparent recruitment processes, merit-based promotions, and robust internal control mechanisms. These measures reduce the opportunities for corrupt practices and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions. In the absence of such safeguards, corruption can become institutionalized, with officials abusing their power for personal gain and engaging in
unethical practices without fear of consequences.
Overall, a merit-based, fair, and objective civil service is crucial for promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability in a government. Without these principles, the risk of partisan influence, incompetence, and corruption increases significantly, which can
undermine the effective functioning of the government and erode public trust.
UPSC General Studies Paper Preparation
Topic | |
UPSC Syllabus | GS Genius-50 Program |
Public administration crash course | UPSC GS Mains 2025 Study Material |
About the Author: Nitin Kumar Singh |