Comment Pieces

The unique language of a bribe-taker

Posted on June 09, 2012

By Manisha Yadav

Bribe-takers have a way of conveying their message for money to you. One needs to be a bit sharp to understand  the nuances of this peculiar Indian language.

Dilly-dallying tactics, pretending to be a busy-body, speaking continuously on the phone when you are seated in front of them, staring at the computer or television in their room ignoring your presence…these are just a few of the signs which a worldly wise individual is supposed to understand!

Why even a stony silence in your presence is a very powerful part of their vocabulary arsenal. In fact, it is louder than the meaning that can be conveyed by numerous words. 

One of our respondents from Bangalore headed to the Provident fund Office to enquire the status of his savings. The official was answering numerous calls in his presence. When our respondent managed to convey his issue, he coolly remarked that he was busy on the day. The official also told him to come the following week.

Since the Bangalorean had to travel a distance of 42 kms (both ways) if he had to repeat the visit, he asked the official if the status can be learnt the same day if he offered some money. Pat came the official’s response: Rs 200.  The individual handed the official Rs 150 and he was offered the status of his fund. To gain first-hand info: http://www.ipaidabribe.com/bribe-central/bribe-knowing-pf-transfer-status.

A little bit of knowledge of any language always helps!