The corruption debate: When Air Deccan's Captain GR Gopinath refused to pay a bribe

I am a firm believer that your reputation precedes you.

In my entire life, I have hardly faced any difficulties on the bribery front, thanks to the image I have created for myself. People know I am honest and I will never compromise my principles under any circumstances.

There are many who do their job only if they are paid money or get some kind of incentive. This is not right. But then again, there are others who don’t do the job even after taking a bribe.

Things have been pretty smooth for me except on two occasions.

Around 2001-02, a bureaucrat made a specific demand.

After he kept nagging me continuously for a bribe, I decided to take the matter up with higher authorities.

I met the minister concerned and fortunately for me, the minister was quick to act and came to my rescue.

Around 2005, a particular file was stuck for clearance for a few months.

A particular politician assured me that everything would be smooth, my file would be cleared — but I would have to contribute to his party.

I refused. I spent sleepless nights for two days thinking of the consequences as the files were important.

My team members told me to give in to his demands as the documents meant a lot for the company. But I did not.

After several meetings with my team, I decided to take the matter up with senior officials. They took action immediately and the file was cleared after six months.

One needs to be patient and stick to the right path while dealing with such cases of corruption.