Indian political scene has gradually deteriorated to such an extent that it resembles a wrestling akhara. It is not the noble qualities of patriotism, service, selflessness which motivates people who choose the profession of public service. Public service demands a lot of sacrifice. It demands full commitment, compassion, understanding, communication with people, honesty, integrity and above all dedication. Do our politicians live up to these standards? Indian politics today is so driven by ambition, lust for power, money and position that politics has become a very inviting profession for fortune seekers who want to make quick bucks through the shortest route.

Those in power need to set a precedent for others. If they are corrupt, self-centered, dishonest, indulge in harmful activities, protect the guilty, then the others down in line also follow them. It is indeed a crisis of character. This is precisely what is the cause of economic backwardness of the country. Our goods cannot compete in the world market. They are substandard. The roads, dams etc. that are built do not stand the test of time because spurious materials are used. Licenses are given to corrupt people who can afford to grease the palm of concerned authority. The erosion of political values, if allowed to continue unchecked, would destroy the nation which is already on the brink of collapse. The educated mass should shake themselves out of their apathy, mobilize public opinion and should allow only those to stand for the high position of public offices who follows a certain code of conduct.