Corruption destroys trust and weakens democracy, says CJI Sanjiv Khanna

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna called corruption a “hydra-headed monster” that destroys public trust and threatens democracy. In a speech on Lokpal Day in New Delhi, CJI Khanna warned that corruption undermines governance, fuels instability, and creates societal divisions.

“The erosion of public trust begins when corruption and bribery infiltrate governance,” he said. He emphasized that the loss of trust leads to political and economic turmoil and can spark violence.

The event, attended by Lokpal Chairman Justice AM Khanwilkar, Lokpal members, and Attorney General R Venkataramani, highlighted the importance of democratic institutions in preventing corruption. “These institutions build systems of accountability and fairness, which inspire public confidence,” said CJI Khanna. He explained that the government’s social contract with citizens depends on their ability to hold the powerful accountable.

Justice Khanna described the Lokpal as a “symbol of hope for billions of Indians.” He stressed that it embodies a central democratic principle: power must be used responsibly, with ethics, accountability, and transparency. He reaffirmed the constitutional significance of the Lokpal in fighting corruption.

The CJI emphasized that public trust is vital for democracy. “Without trust, no system can work effectively. Public trust is essential for constitutional democracy,” he stated. He further explained that corruption exacerbates inequality, harming the poor, women, and marginalized groups most. “The poor often pay the highest percentage of their income in bribes,” he pointed out. Women, who rely on public services, bear a disproportionate burden, while the privileged often manipulate policies to their advantage.

CJI Khanna also cited data to show the scale of corruption. High-profile scams cost the nation ₹36,000 crore annually, while everyday bribes for government services totaled ₹21,000 crore in 2005.

While praising Lokpal’s achievements, CJI Khanna highlighted the need for cooperation with other anti-corruption bodies like the Central Vigilance Commission. He stressed that Lokpal must act independently and impartially. “Citizens are essential to the fight against corruption. They file complaints and testify against corrupt officials,” he said. Educating the public on how to engage with the Lokpal system is crucial for its success.

Justice Khanna concluded by calling for a democratic approach to combating corruption. “Our fight must strengthen democracy and public trust, not weaken it. Anti-corruption efforts should promote democracy, not undermine it. We must fight corruption democratically.”