The Role of Bureaucracy in Politics: Examining Merits,
Criticisms, and Responsibilities
Introduction:
Bureaucracy refers to a system of government administration
characterized by certain features and responsibilities. It is important to
clarify its true meaning and dispel misconceptions.
Bureaucracy should not be confused with excessive paperwork
or red tape, as it goes beyond that.
According to Karl Marx, bureaucracy is often associated with
deception, despotism, and a hegemonic mentality.
Similarly, George Bernard Shaw described it as an empire of
idols and a republic of priests. Gladden defined bureaucracy as a dynamic
administrative system based on interdependence among all nations. It primarily
refers to the civil service and involves the government being run by civil
officers.
Essentials of Bureaucracy:
Max Weber, a European thinker, provided a detailed analysis
of bureaucracy.
He identified several essential characteristics:
1:-Employment of employees at a fixed rate.
2:-Departmental organization based on professional and
hierarchical principles.
3:-Application of written rules to address specific
administrative problems.
4:-The significance of orders relies on legal obedience
rather than personal obedience.
5:-Tenure and promotion are determined based on ability.
6:-Government employment is regarded as a career service.
7:-The spirit of bureaucracy is based on an impersonal
basis.
8:-Seasonal or legal order and control are integral
components of bureaucracy.
9:-Recruitment of employees is based on merit and
competence.
10:-The motto of bureaucracy is "Excellence."
Responsibilities of Bureaucracy:
Bureaucracy is considered a strong and organized institution
with a vital role in developing countries. It performs various functions for
the welfare of these states:
1:-Policy making:
Bureaucracy shapes policy formulation by consolidating
economic and political policies into their final form.
2:-Policy implementation:
Bureaucracy not only influences policy formulation but also
takes responsibility for its implementation, requiring sufficient powers and
resources from the government.
3:-Administration:
Bureaucracy is responsible for managing internal law and
order and other administrative functions within the government.
In developing nations, district administration is very
significant, with the DCO, the most senior district officer, serving as a representative
of the bureaucracy.
4:-Advocacy on behalf of political parties
In emerging nations, the bureaucracy frequently adopts a
political stance and serves as a tool for political parties. During times of
political upheaval, this involvement may result in friction and conflict.
5:-Guideline for elections:
In underdeveloped
nations, the bureaucracy may be biassed during elections, supporting preferred
candidates and affecting the results. This may have a detrimental effect on
politics, leading to illegitimate appointments and corruption.
Objections to bureaucracy:
Political theorists have criticised bureaucracy for a number
of reasons, including:
1:-Corruption:
The bureaucracy has been charged with misconduct,
corruption, and power abuse.
2:-Red tape:
Bureaucratic management is frequently criticised for its
inefficiency, with unending file recirculation and small complaints leading to
greater bribes.
3:-Bribery and nepotism:
Contracts may be awarded based on dishonest methods, and
appointments in agencies like the police, customs, and income tax may
occasionally be affected by bribes. These illicit links may also provide
protection for criminals.
4:-Luxurious lifestyle:
Bureaucrats are frequently seen as leading opulent lives,
which can give the impression that they don't care about the ordinary
population.
5:-Protection of vested interests:
It is believed that bureaucrats collaborate with the
landlord and merchant classes and put their interests ahead of that of the
general public.
6:- Authority hierarchies:
In developing nations, bureaucrats frequently eclipse
politicians and create a perception of unelected domination by holding enormous
influence in finance, administration, and other areas.
7:-Excessive power:
Politicians in developing nations may be significantly
affected by bureaucrats due to their broad range of authority.
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