Newton's Father Returns: Nitin Gadkari Tackles Corruption Head-On

Koushik Roy

Newton’s Father Returns: Nitin Gadkari Tackles Corruption Head-On

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Calls Out Corruption in Government

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has recently made headlines with his candid remarks regarding corruption within Indian government services. Speaking at the College of Engineering Pune Technological University (COEPTU) during an Engineers Day event, Gadkari emphasized the urgent need for transparency and swift decision-making in government operations. His speech resonated with many attendees, particularly due to his forthright critique of corrupt officials in the system.

Criticism of Bureaucratic Attitudes

In his address, Gadkari raised concerns about the bureaucratic mentality that plagues government departments, asserting that inadequate Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) lead to not only delays in highway projects but also increase the risk of road accidents. He elaborated on a troubling trend where certain officials wait indefinitely for orders to perform even basic tasks, such as filling potholes on roads. Gadkari’s claim that some officials only spring into action once monetary incentives are involved paints a grim picture of accountability within the public sector.

Highlighted Statements on Systemic Issues

   

Gadkari’s colorful analogy, stating that “Newton’s father is sitting in our system,” reflects his frustration with the current state of affairs. He contended that written rules are often misinterpreted or ignored unless accompanied by an understanding of their true intent. “If a worker does not grasp the spirit of any rule, what use is it?” Gadkari questioned. He lamented that in the existing bureaucracy, the urgency and quality of work appear to correlate directly with the flow of money—suggesting that heavier files move through the system more swiftly.

Encouraging Integrity and Leadership

Despite the disheartening observations, Gadkari also expressed a strong preference for integrity in the workplace. He noted, “Just as a person loves their spouse, too many clerks seem to keep their files in limbo for extended periods.” His advocacy for honest and hardworking officials is clear; he believes that engineering, research, and technology are essential, but they must be coupled with strong leadership, team spirit, and above all, transparency in administration.

A Call to Action for Youth

Gadkari hopes his remarks serve as a lesson for the younger generation, emphasizing that real change requires action and integrity. His candid assessment of the government’s inner workings is not only a critique but also an invitation for youth to engage in building a more efficient, transparent, and accountable system.