By ARUN PRATAP SINGH
Garhwal Post Bureau
MUSSOORIE, 23 Aug: Former Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat is a man who doesn’t mince words while commenting on the state of affairs in the State or also in respect of culture and his statements are considered to be a reason why he was asked to go soon after becoming the chief minister. This time, Rawat has again stirred political and administrative circles with a scathing critique of Uttarakhand’s bureaucracy and persistent corruption. Speaking at a public programme in Mussoorie, Rawat lamented that despite the formation of Uttarakhand as a separate state, the machinery of corruption continues to operate unabated, albeit now with local actors at the helm.
Rawat remarked that the “truck of corruption” which once ran under the shadow of Uttar Pradesh has not slowed down but the drivers and passengers have changed. He commented that earlier, it was said that officers would carry truckloads of money from here to Uttar Pradesh. Today, those loading the trucks and those relishing the cashews, almonds, and raisins are all from Uttarakhand. This statement while surprising the gathering, also evoked applause from the audience.
Tirath Singh Rawat’s comments struck a chord with many, especially those who had been part of the Uttarakhand statehood movement. Rawat nostalgically recalled the fervour of the movement, when people pledged to survive on humble staples like koda (millet) and jhangora to build a new, just Uttarakhand. He expressed disappointment that the ideals and aspirations that once fuelled the movement have faded, and the Uttarakhand as had been then envisioned, remains elusive.
Former Chief Minister’s address was particularly scathing towards the bureaucracy in Uttarakhand. He stated that the officials are of two kinds here, those who are genuinely committed to public service while there are others who are entrenched in malpractice. He emphasised that the public cannot truly benefit unless the government functions in a planned and transparent manner. He asserted that just as there are good and bad politicians, there are honest officers and those who misuse their positions. Without systemic reform, the common man will continue to suffer.
Calling for a collective effort, Rawat urged leaders, bureaucrats, artists, and citizens from all walks of life to unite for the development of Uttarakhand. He stressed that only a spirit of integrity and dedication to public service can propel the state forward.
