Being a least developed country, Nepal has a plethora of problems that it has to tackle. Among the many problems the country is facing, the most vexing one is corruption which is deep-rooted in Nepali public life. Actually, no sector in Nepal has remained unaffected by corruption.

Corruption is not a recent problem in Nepal; it has been here since long. However, the level of corruption has escalated in recent years.

Corruption, a social malaise, has hindered Nepal’s development process and has posed a serious threat to its democratic system. It has not only shattered the economy of the country but has also weakened the social fabric of the people in general.

It is undoubtedly alarming the way many are seeking easy money even if it has to be earned illegally. It is also distressing how the society seems to accept such people who are known to be involved in immoral and illegal activities.

A parliamentary report concludes that corruption exists at all levels such as political, bureaucratic and economic. It has found widespread coverage in media and basically every citizen is aware of corruption.

This evil, although a disgrace to the country, has become a fact – and a norm – in our life. The phenomenon continues unabated in spite of formulation of acts, media coverage and public awareness in general. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), a constitutional body to fight corruption, has displayed a dismal performance. It virtually limps with the excuse of non-cooperation from the government agencies in the implementation of its recommendations.

Although the CIAA is a constitutional body provided for by the constitution to fight corruption, it still claims that it still lacks legal teeth to act tough against corrupt people. While this is the state with the anti-corruption body, it has been observed that corruption has bred and thrived with political leadership providing protection to the corrupt people.

In fact, laws are not enough to fight corruption; what is essential is proper implementation. Furthermore, awareness among the people is equally necessary. If the corrupt people were abhorred by the society and boycotted socially, this malpractice would not flourish the way we have seen it flourishing in recent years.

The present government should be committed to rooting it out corruption.