Nothing works in our nation without a bribe. So, shouldn't this be the right time to look closely at the most significant consequences of this national malignant disease?

First, the economic consequences: Here bribery undermines fair competition, leading to inefficient allocation of resources. It adds hidden costs, inflating prices and reduces profitability. Bribery deters foreign investment as investors seek stable and transparent environments. And it undermines economic growth because corruption diverts resources from essential public services, hindering economic development.

Next the social consequences: Bribery erodes trust: It undermines our faith in institutions, governments, and businesses. It fosters inequality: Bribery favours those with power and wealth, exacerbating social disparities. It encourages crime because bribery often involves organised crime, fuelling illegal activities. It also damages reputation because bribery scandals harm individuals', businesses', and the nation's reputation.

Look at the political consequences, where bribery subverts democratic processes, influencing policy decisions. It compromises public officials' integrity, leading to abuse of power. Bribery contributes to social unrest, protests, and regime changes. It even compromises national security because it can facilitate illegal arms deals, terrorism, and other security threats.

Personal consequences: Engaging in bribery compromises personal values and ethics. Bribery also damages relationships because bribery erodes trust among colleagues, clients, and partners.

Take a peek at some of the business consequences where there is reputational damage because bribery scandals harm companies' brands and credibility. Then there are financial penalties of fines, legal fees, and lost business, which can be devastating. Just think of Adani investors who have lost their wealth in the last two days! Also, there is operational disruption as bribery investigations and prosecutions disrupt business operations and also loss of licenses as companies convicted of bribery risk losing licenses and permits.

And finally there are huge societal consequences as bribery diverts resources from essential services like healthcare and education. It facilitates environmental damage and exploitation, perpetuates inequality, and undermines social justice and oh yes, bribery undermines cultural values, promoting corruption and dishonesty!

Instead of playing the role of a victim in the US, let us combat this terrible evil by strengthening the laws and enforcement, promoting transparency and accountability, and encouraging whistleblower reporting.

Let us foster a culture of integrity and ethics.

Bribery is so rampant in our so-called democracy that after each election, elected representatives voted in by people for a certain ideology or thought they stood for before the elections are flown to resorts so they won't be bribed and jump the party representing opposite ideologies!

Disgusting, isn't it? So, shouldn't we treat this court indictment as a wake-up call?