- By Kamal Kumar
- Tue, 30 Jan 2024 05:52 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Corruption Perception Index: India got the 93rd spot in a list of 180 countries featured in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index. This index measures the level of corruption in the public sector in a country, according to scores based on their performance on several parameters. A score of 100 suggests a highly clean state of affairs vis-a-vis corruption whereas, a score of 0 indicates a very high level of corruption.
India's rank slipped from 85 to 93
In 2023, India recorded a score of 39, a slight decrease from the 2022 score of 40, when its rank was 85. The report notes that the score fluctuations are not significant enough to draw firm conclusions. However, it highlights concerns about a narrowing civic space in India, particularly with the passage of a telecommunications bill that could pose a 'grave threat' to fundamental rights, especially in the lead-up to the elections.
Neighbours Sri Lanka and Pakistan grappling with severe corruption
In South Asia, both Pakistan (133) and Sri Lanka (115) grapple with their respective debt burdens and ensuing political instability. The report suggests a high level of public sector corruption in both countries.
"However, the two countries have strong judicial oversight, which is helping to keep the government in check. The Supreme Court of Pakistan strengthened citizens' right to information by expanding this right under Article 19A of its Constitution to previously restricted institutions," it said.
Bangladesh showing a positive transition
As Bangladesh (149) transitions from the least developed country (LDC) status, the report notes positive trends such as economic growth contributing to a sustained decrease in poverty and enhanced living conditions. However, it highlights challenges in the flow of information about the public sector due to an ongoing crackdown on the press.
New Zealand is, the cleanest country; Singapore, and Japan also feature on top
"Countries with continued high scores, such as New Zealand (3) and Singapore (5), maintain their positions at the top of the index globally, followed closely by other countries with stronger corruption control mechanisms, such as Australia (14), Hong Kong (14), Japan (16), Bhutan (26), Taiwan (28) and South Korea (32)," it said.
