Are you aware that “decision making” is a real challenge for the government officials under the current rules? This is important to understand, as all our lives are heavily dependent on it – be it the execution of tenders, auctions, granting loans, or performance of public projects – healthcare, housing, public services etc. The purpose of this note is to discuss these challenges – resulting in most “bureaucratic decisions” sub-optimal.
The Fear of Harassment
The current public perception is that the “government working” is highly vitiated by corruption. Though it is true, it is also correct that a large number of government officials are “well-intended” and they want to carry out tasks promptly, honestly and efficiently. But then what is preventing them from doing so? It is the Prevention of Corruption Act of 1988, which was intended to root out corruption by penalizing the erring officials. But why? Let me explain.
