A Hero’s Fight Against Corruption
Muhammad Elyass
Yesterday, over breakfast, I had a deeply moving conversation with a close family friend. She shared the heartbreaking story of her father, once a vibrant man, now debilitated by an illness that has plagued him for six or seven years. His condition has deteriorated to such an extent that he struggles to walk, communicate, or even perform basic tasks. Once a hero in his own right, he is now a shadow of his former self—a transformation that left me shaken and restless through the night.
Her father devoted his life to public service, working for the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC). Known for his loyalty, dedication, and generosity, he served with a sense of responsibility and a commitment to helping others. But his unwavering integrity came at a heavy price. His career, marked by an unjust suspension lasting nearly 45 months, became a tale of betrayal and systemic corruption. For almost four years, he was denied income—resulting in a loss of approximately 19 to 20 lakh rupees. The financial strain during this period plunged his family into despair.
During this suspension, his work in the JKSRTC—a critical role ensuring the supply of essential commodities and managing passenger services across the state—was left in disarray. Essential policies to support children and housing programs faltered due to financial constraints. By the time he retired, the modest sum he received from his General Provident Fund was a bitter reminder of the ordeal he had endured.
Legally, suspensions are meant to be temporary, lasting only as long as necessary to investigate allegations. Employees are entitled to at least 50% of their salary as a subsistence allowance for the first 90 days of suspension, increasing to 75% if it extends beyond that. In most cases, the duration should not exceed 180 days. Yet, in this case, the rules were flagrantly disregarded, making his suspension a glaring example of the abuse of power, systemic corruption, and profound injustice.
The reasons for his suspension were not rooted in any major misconduct but were instead the result of his attempts to confront corruption. In his role, he uncovered unethical practices by colleagues—drivers and other employees—who were diverting essential commodities for personal profit and engaging in activities that disrupted the region’s social fabric. His courageous attempts to address these issues and warn his colleagues of the consequences earned him their wrath.
In retaliation, they fabricated false allegations against him, tampered with his service records, and marked him absent for long periods. A network of corrupt individuals—spanning from junior employees to senior officials—colluded to target him. The systemic nature of this conspiracy underscored the deep rot within the administration. While he faced suspension and financial ruin, others, who barely showed up for work, continued to draw full salaries without consequence.
Determined to seek justice, he filed a lawsuit against those who wronged him. Despite warrants being issued against the perpetrators, they were never arrested—yet another testament to the pervasive corruption within the system. During his darkest days, he relied on the support of a few friends, both within Kashmir and beyond. Among them was a politician from the Hindu community who initially offered financial assistance but later revealed prejudices against Islam. Despite his dire circumstances, he refused further aid, valuing his principles and faith over material gain.
This act of integrity defined his character—a man willing to endure hardship rather than compromise on his beliefs. However, the legal battle drained him financially, emotionally, and physically. His struggles were compounded by the failure of the justice system to hold the culprits accountable.
In recent years, his health has deteriorated significantly. A visit to the doctor revealed that he had suffered extensive brain damage—60%—yet his resilience astonished the medical professionals. They described his survival as nothing short of a miracle, a testament to the strength of a man who lived with compassion, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
His journey is a tragic reminder of the cost of integrity in a world rife with corruption. It is also a scathing indictment of the systemic failures that allow such injustices to persist. While many continue to exploit the system for personal gain, honest individuals like him bear the brunt of its flaws.
As we reflect on his story, we must ask: how many more lives will be destroyed before we address the corruption and inefficiencies within our institutions? His tale is not an isolated incident but a reflection of a broader malaise. Without accountability and reform, the cycle of injustice will continue, leaving behind shattered lives and unfulfilled potential.
Despite his suffering, his life serves as a call to action. It urges us to confront the corruption and oppression that plague our society and work toward a system that values integrity, fairness, and justice. Let his story not fade into obscurity but inspire us to demand better. For every individual like him who endures such hardship, there lies an opportunity for us to fight for a brighter, more just future.
This man’s life may be a story of shattered dreams, but it is also a beacon of hope—a reminder that integrity, though costly, is invaluable. Let us honor his legacy by committing ourselves to the cause of justice and reform.
Note:-Muhammad Elyass is a freelancer, journalist, and columnist known for his sharp insights and impactful writing. Reach him at muhammadilyass789@gmail.com.
