Ramesh Abhishek: From "Make in India" Champion to Corruption Accused

Ramesh Abhishek, a former IAS officer of the Bihar cadre, was once considered a driving force behind key government initiatives like "Make in India" and "Startup India." However, recent accusations of corruption have cast a shadow over his legacy, raising questions about his conduct and potential misuse of his position.

A Distinguished Career:

Abhishek joined the Indian Administrative Service in 1982 and held various important positions throughout his career. He served as Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Chairman of the Forward Market Commission, playing a crucial role in shaping industrial policy and financial regulations. During his tenure, he actively championed initiatives like "Make in India," aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and attracting foreign investment. He was also commended for his work in promoting startups and fostering innovation.

The Accusations:

In February 2023, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered an FIR against Abhishek, alleging disproportionate assets and receiving bribes from companies he had official dealings with while in service. His daughter was also named in the investigation. Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is probing whether Abhishek earned significant sums as consulting fees from companies with connections to him during his stint in government.

Key Allegations:

• Disproportionate assets: The CBI claims Abhishek's assets are far greater than his known sources of income can explain.
• Receiving bribes: Allegedly, Abhishek accepted bribes from companies while serving as DPIIT Secretary.
• Unethical post-retirement consultancies: The ED investigates if Abhishek received undue financial benefits by consulting for companies he interacted with while in office.

Current Status:

Abhishek denies all allegations and claims his assets are legal and acquired through legitimate means. The investigations are ongoing, and no charges have been formally filed against him.

Impact and Unanswered Questions:

The accusations against Abhishek raise serious concerns about potential corruption and ethical lapses within the government. They also prompt questions about:

• The effectiveness of anti-corruption measures: Despite holding high positions, Abhishek was allegedly able to accumulate wealth through questionable means. This raises questions about the robustness of existing safeguards against corruption.
• The impact on "Make in India": Abhishek was a key figure in the initiative. If the allegations are proven true, it could damage the program's credibility and raise concerns about potential biases in its implementation.
• The future of Abhishek's career: The outcome of the investigations will significantly impact his future, both professionally and personally.

Conclusion:

Ramesh Abhishek's case highlights the complexity of corruption and the challenges in ensuring ethical conduct within government institutions. While the investigations are ongoing, the accusations raise vital questions about accountability, transparency, and the potential consequences of unethical behavior in positions of power.