The concept of Indian bureaucracy as a neo-colonial practice suggests that the administrative system inherited from the colonial era retains elements that perpetuate hierarchical structures, power imbalances, and centralized control reminiscent of colonial governance.
Post-independence, India retained the bureaucratic framework established by the British. This bureaucratic structure, characterized by a top-down approach, extensive red tape, and a rigid hierarchy, has been criticized for perpetuating a system that often alienates citizens from decision-making processes. Moreover, the bureaucratic machinery’s complex procedures can impede efficient governance and economic progress.
Critics argue that this bureaucratic setup continues to concentrate power among a select few, limiting the decentralization necessary for effective governance in a diverse and vast country like India. The bureaucracy’s detachment from local contexts and its perceived insulation from public accountability have led to criticisms of it being out of touch with the needs and aspirations of the populace.
While the bureaucracy serves essential administrative functions, the perception of it mirroring colonial-era practices persists due to its centralization of power, cumbersome procedures, and sometimes opaque decision-making processes. Reform efforts aim to decentralize authority, increase transparency, and streamline processes to align more closely with the needs of a modern, democratic India.
