Lack of Civic Sense: A Mere Obligation or a Mere Inconvenience?

Importantly, each of us must hold ourselves accountable. Real progress begins not with blaming

- BHAVANI SUNDARAM

Civic sense is one of the most debated yet most neglected issues in India. Despite endless discussions, very little has changed in how we treat our surroundings. For many, civic sense is either an obligation to be avoided or a nuisance to be ignored.

Most people assume civic sense is simply about cleanliness—keeping our roads and neighborhoods free of litter. But it extends much further; it is about following the law, showing respect for others, and maintaining public decorum.

Sadly, what we witness daily tells another story. From spitting on the streets to road rage, from defacing monuments to tossing garbage from moving vehicles—signs of indifference and disregard are everywhere. Our roads are dirty not because they are not cleaned, but because people continue to dirty them.