By P Mohan Chandran
In the labyrinth of morality and law, there's an ironic narrative that unfurls itself. It's a narrative that involves powerful figures conducting scams with impunity, and paradoxically, it's a narrative that also involves those who redirect ill-gotten wealth towards welfare, often finding themselves on the wrong side of the law. A tale of two worlds, seemingly running parallel, yet intersecting in their core essence: the misuse and redistribution of wealth.
Imagine a scenario where a powerful figure orchestrates a scam within the legal framework's grey areas. They siphon off people's hard-earned money, repurpose public funds, and dilute government tax revenues, all under the guise of legal maneuvering. Yet, they continue to be respected figures in society, living a life of luxury, unaffected by their transgressions.
Contrastingly, envision another character: a rogue who robs the wealthy, those whose wealth is often amassed through questionable means. This rogue, let's call them a modern-day Robin Hood, uses this wealth for welfare activities, building hospitals, schools, and libraries for the underprivileged. But, the law apprehends them, branding them a criminal, while their welfare efforts are overshadowed by their method of resource acquisition.
This dichotomy raises some hard-hitting questions. Why is it that individuals who misappropriate public funds in the name of governance enjoy immunity, while those who redirect these resources and put the wealth to good use are punished? Why does society turn a blind eye to the misdeeds of these influential figures, while it condemns the Robin Hoods?
Why are the powerful figures who exploit legal loopholes to conduct scams, hailed and respected, while those who strip them of their ill-gotten wealth, for public welfare, are labeled criminals? Is robbing a thief indeed a theft, especially when the loot is used for the greater good?
A fitting example can be found in the 2008 global financial crisis. Bankers, with their complex financial products, drained the wealth of millions, yet faced minimal legal repercussions. On the other hand, hackers who've exposed or appropriated ill-gotten wealth from such institutions have faced the full force of the law.
Closer home, numerous political scams in India saw those in power misappropriate enormous sums, yet many of them continue to enjoy public respect and lead luxurious lives. However, individuals who tried to expose these wrongdoings or made attempts to redirect this wealth for the public good, have faced severe repercussions.
The dichotomy is hard to ignore. It presents a social paradox that can only be reconciled through a fundamental shift in our perception of morality and justice.
This disparity underscores the need for systemic reform and public vigilance. It calls for the deconstruction of the veneer that often shields the powerful and the recognition of the genuine, albeit unconventional, efforts of those working for societal welfare.
It is essential to question the status quo and disrupt this paradoxical narrative. It is crucial to remember that respect and power should not stem from one's position but their actions. Let's aim for a society where virtue is celebrated over position, and the line between right and wrong is not blurred by the smokescreen of power.
Do you think some politicians are indulging in legalized loot while the real Samaritans are getting punished?
Yes, many corrupt politicians escape scot-free with scams.
No, none can ever escape the long arms of the law.
© 2023 P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
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