Privatization v/s National Security

Are we risking security by increasing privatization, especially, in areas like transportation and communications? It has been reported in the media that the recent bomb blasts in Hyderabad and Ajmer used mobile phones as triggers. This raises an important concern: are the private companies following all the security and identification procedures?

It looks like that the answer is in the negative. Usually the situation improves after an incident, but this time even the bomb blasts have not made any impact. The Times of India reported that they were able to obtain two SIM cards in fictitious names from Vodafone and Airtel. What is even more interesting is that it takes only a small amount of money (Rs. 150 – 200) to get a SIM car in any name!

I understand that any private company exists primarily for making money, but they have to also exercise their responsibility towards the country and its people. My wife tells me that this is what is taught in MBA schools as “business ethics”, but then how many people care about what classes they took once they get a job.

This situation becomes more alarming when I look at the transportation industry, especially the booming airline industry in India. I have no idea about the security lapses in the system. The areas where passengers are not involved are the ones of primary concern. I think the most important part is the baggage handling after check-in. I am not sure if the people handling the baggage are educated about the importance of security, or for that matter if they care at all!

But then, having seen the plight of government run systems we cannot go back to being pre-1993 India. Privatization is thus here to stay. It is ‘we’, the citizens of India, who have to become more aware of our surroundings (and belongings).