Corruption: A Crisis of our Nation’s Character
August 22, 2011: The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) welcomes the move of the government on August 20, 2011 to call for suggestions from the public on the Lokpal Bill in a bid to tackle the menace of corruption . EFI recognises that we as a nation, have let slip the values of honesty and integrity. The cancerous spread of corruption in India’s public and personal life is evident in all areas. Common Indians, especially women, Dalit, tribal, poor and minorities communities, face the brunt of it with a deep sense of desperation.
It’s tragic when people regard honesty, truth and integrity as negotiable values. We live in an immoral culture which sometimes even infiltrates our church. This is sinful. Such evil acts are disgraceful and must be condemned.
The greater tragedy is that the highest seats of leadership in our political, administrative, religious and educational arenas are the worst affected by corruption. The crisis of corruption illustrates that deception, injustice, and violence reign supreme when politics is not an arena of truth. Lies and falsehood are the refuge and shelter of the corrupt as they fear for their power, oppressing those whom they are meant to serve.
The extensive coverage of corruption scandals in high places over the years has kept the issue of corruption in the limelight. While those in leadership roles have a greater accountability and responsibility, corruption is a social problem that requires comprehensive social churning and cultural changes.
The movement against corruption must be viewed as a re-awakening of the moral consciousness of our nation, for we are created in the image and likeness of a Holy God. A nation depends on truth and truth depends on the struggle of the truthful people on behalf of truth. As Jesus said, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free,” (John 8:32). It is we, the people of India, who will and can make India corruption free, by being honest, courageous men and women of integrity.
The present crisis is also a clarion call for the Church to introspect and repent. The church by its witness to the truth, in humility, honesty, integrity and loyalty to God, needs to be a powerful influence in transforming our nation. As the Bible teaches, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).
EFI invites the nation to introspect and unite in purpose, joining hands together to dialogue and work toward making India corruption free. Jai Hind!
Issued On Behalf of EFI by:
Rev. Dr. Richard Howell,
General Secretary
Evangelical Fellowship of India
New Delhi, India
Evangelical Fellowship of India (established 1951) is a charter member of World Evangelical Alliance, an accredited NGO with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations