The article argues that India's core reform challenge lies in deep-seated colonial attitudes, manifesting as a lack of accountability and trust between the ruling powers and the populace. It criticizes both bureaucratic insiders and the "pillars of democracy"—executive, legislature, judiciary, and media—for acting as stakeholders rather than public safeguards, deflecting responsibility and engaging in transactional relationships. The author suggests the system's failures stem from a lack of intent rather than design flaws.