DR. FIAZ MAQBOOL FAZILI
In the fabric of societal ethics, certain practices stand out not just as nuisances but as malignant tumours eating away at the core values we profess to uphold. Among these, the insidious trio of tipping, greasing hands, and chai—though seemingly innocuous—harbour within them the seeds of moral corruption. It’s imperative to recognize their detrimental effects and collectively strive to eradicate them from our social tapestry. The normalization of fraud and corruption in India, particularly through practices like baksheesh, greasing palms, and chai, has reached a point where it is no longer just a social ill but a moral crisis. This essay delves into the roots of this moral decline, explores how Indians perceive it, and examines the ethical implications of tipping, especially in the context of Ramadan, a holy month meant for self-reflection and spiritual growth.
The Normalization of Fraud and Corruption in Society India; Fraud and corruption have become so normalized in India that they are often dismissed as “the way things work.” From small-scale bribes to large-scale embezzlement, the practice of greasing palms has infiltrated every level of society. Whether it’s a government official demanding a bribe to expedite paperwork, a traffic cop expecting chai money to overlook a violation, or a courier delivery boy asking for Iftar kharche (breakfast expenditure during Ramadan), the line between right and wrong has been blurred.
People of the sub-continent have a complex relationship with corruption. On one hand, there is widespread resentment toward systemic corruption, especially when it involves high-profile scandals or political malfeasance. On the other hand, many Indians participate in petty corruption, justifying it as a necessary evil to navigate a broken system. This duality reflects a deep-seated cynicism and a lack of faith in institutions. The question is not just why corruption is so normalized but why it is so readily accepted.
The Ethical Dilemma of Tipping: Essential or Optional? Tipping, or baksheesh, is a practice sadly deeply embedded in traditionally modest God Fearing Kashmiri culture. While it is often framed as a gesture of gratitude, it has morphed into an expectation, sometimes even a demand. The courier delivery boy asking for Iftar kharche during Ramadan is a case in point. Ramadan is a time for fasting, prayer, and self-improvement, yet here is an individual exploiting the sanctity of the occasion to solicit unearned money. This is not just a moral decline; it is a betrayal of the values Ramadan seeks to instill.
Tipping in our land is a gray area. While it is customary to tip service staff in restaurants, hotels, and taxis, the practice has extended to situations where it is neither warranted nor appropriate. For instance, why should a bank employee demand chai money to process a bounced cheque? Why should a government official ask for a bribe to issue a death certificate? These are not tips; they are extortion.
The Islamic Perspective on Gift-Giving and Bribery: Islam provides a clear framework for distinguishing between permissible gift-giving and haram (forbidden) bribery. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against accepting gifts that influence decision-making or compromise integrity. In the context of tipping, if a worker is already being paid for their services, accepting additional money as a tip can be considered haram, especially if it leads to favoritism or negligence in duty.The courier delivery boy asking for Iftar kharche is not just engaging in an unethical practice; he is also violating Islamic principles. Ramadan is a time to purify one’s soul and seek forgiveness, not to exploit others for personal gain. The act of demanding a tip during this holy month is a stark reminder of how far we have strayed from our moral compass.
The Cultural Context of Baksheesh and Chai:Baksheesh and chai are euphemisms for bribery that reflect the cultural nuances of corruption in India. These terms soften the harsh reality of what is essentially a moral failing. When a government official asks for chai money, they are not asking for a cup of tea; they are demanding a bribe. When a delivery boy asks for Iftar kharche, he is not seeking breakfast expenses; he is exploiting a religious occasion for personal gain.
The cultural acceptance of these practices is deeply troubling. It perpetuates a cycle of corruption where everyone, from the highest echelons of power to the lowest rungs of society, is complicit. This normalization of corruption is not just a legal or economic issue; it is a moral crisis that undermines the very foundation of our society.
The Moral Imperative to Eradicate Corruption, Institutions must be held accountable for their actions. This includes fostering a culture of accountability through independent oversight bodies, transparent reporting mechanisms, and a commitment to ethical conduct at all levels.Awareness campaigns can help citizens understand the ethical implications of corruption and empower them to resist it. This includes teaching children the value of integrity and the importance of earning money through honest means.:
Say No to the Normalization of Corruption: As individuals, we must refuse to participate in corrupt practices, even if they seem minor or inconsequential. This includes saying no to tipping in inappropriate situations and reporting instances of bribery or extortion. Avoid Tipping to Bend the Rules: In some tourist-heavy areas, or strict no entry zones like hospitals you might be tempted to tip to gain access to restricted areas or to skip long lines, or to get extra service. This not only violates local regulations but also undermines the integrity of the sites and more importantly sometimes, this might not be the safest way. Offering money to cross the rules is classified as bribing. Be careful NOT TO engage in any such act! Resist Tipping out of Obligation: In many touristy places, visitors are expected to tip no matter what. But tipping should be a reward for exceptional service, not a compulsion. DO NOT tip such service providers as you’ll be unconsciously encouraging them to keep up with the low-quality service for hefty prices! Don’t Tip out of Pity: While it’s natural to feel compassionate towards those in less fortunate circumstances, tipping out of pity can foster dependency and reduce self-reliance.
Conclusion: A Call to Action; The menace of tipping, greasing hands, baksheesh, and chai represents a moral corruption that undermines the very fabric of society. To combat this scourge, we must collectively reject these practices and work towards a more just, equitable, and ethical world. It’s not just a matter of personal choice but a moral imperative that requires concerted action at all levels of society.
The courier delivery boy asking for Iftar kharche during Ramadan is a symptom of a larger problem. It is a reminder that we have normalized corruption to the point where it infiltrates even our most sacred occasions. Ramadan is a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal. Let us use this holy month to reflect on our actions, repent for our wrongdoings, and renew our commitment to ethical conduct. Only then can we build a future where integrity, fairness, and meritocracy prevail over corruption and cronyism. When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do But when in land like Kashmir, what do I Do?”
The choice is ours. Will we continue to turn a blind eye to the moral decline around us, or will we take a stand and say, “Enough is enough”? The time to act is now.
Note: Author is Surgeon at Mubarak hospital, Member Of GCC-Group of concerned citizens contributes columns on social, moral and religious issues can be reached at drfiazfazili@gmail.com
