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The Changing Face
of Bureaucracy
The IAS was formally constituted in trying times as most of the British and Muslim civil servants had left the country leaving few ICS officers behind. The resettlement of lakhs of uprooted families from West Pakistan and East Bengal, integration of 562 princely states and sensitive law and order conditions needed immediate measures. ICS officers along with others controlled and handled the situation commendably. Noticeably, it was the ICS which laid the foundations of the country's governing system and the framework for its infrastructure during the last century and a half of the colonial rule. A uniform pattern of administration was introduced in the whole country. Every inch of land in each village was mapped and the record of rights was prepared. A system was introduced, with uniform laws for the security of life and property for public peace and order along with enforcing machinery. A nucleus of modern education began in metropolitan centres. Measures were taken for the conservation of forests, preservation of ancient monuments, construction of network of canals for irrigation and extension of means of communications, post offices and telegraphs. The dominating aim of the government was to make the governance smooth. The ICS was held in high esteem for its honesty, impartiality, efficiency and steadfastness. However, the same can't be said of our IAS. Though the latter did shine during the early period in the reflection of the ICS, gradually, degeneration set in. The author candidly points out that after the massive win in 1980, Indira Gandhi rehabilitated the civil servants who had been her partners in manipulating rules during Emergency. It was no longer distinguishable whether they were the servants of the state or of the ruling party, although some sticklers for propriety were made to quit. This trend is still prevalent. A number of IAS officers these days are identified with political leaders/parties, caste and class. Originally, the IAS was based on meritocracy, but over a period it has been compromised by reservation and the quota system. There is a view that it has outlived its utility, particularly in view of market economy forces. Now, it is rather more needed to protect the vulnerable sections from the onslaught of these forces. The only need is to bring the 'service' out of degrading morass. A number of committees and commission were appointed earlier to suggest reforms in the service, but their reports remained on the shelf only. The author suggests three angles to redeem the old glory-firstly, insulate the IAS from political influences. Secondly, fix parameters for its accountability to make administrative delivery essential. Thirdly, design qualitative improvement in performance. This is a welcome volume on the service and provides an exhaustive account of the IAS, its past and present.
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