Letters: Root of corruption

In his column Weekend Ruminations (“Get Religion,” September 3), T N Ninan has very lightly touched on the topic of corruption. The root of the issue is the power enjoyed by bureaucrats, the election process and rules of public office. The right to recall an elected representative should be high on the list of desirable reforms.

Next on the list should be the right to complain about a bureaucrat if he demands a bribe. Section 498A, which is being misused by many, allows a woman to complain of torture regarding dowry. Why can’t we have a similar Code for our bureaucrats? This will ensure that they deliver the services demanded of them without asking for bribes.

Saurabh Sharma, Chennai