Vigilance Awareness Week: Odisha's CM Majhi unveils plans for future corruption battle

Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: During the inauguration of Vigilance Awareness Week at the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Monday, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi accused the previous BJD government of widespread corruption throughout its 24 years in power.

After leading officials in an integrity pledge, CM Majhi criticized the former Naveen Patnaik administration, asserting that numerous officers were complicit in corrupt activities and would face investigation.

He emphasized that many officials exploited the 5T initiative for corrupt gains and that the current government, under the BJP, is committed to a strict policy of zero tolerance towards corruption. Since assuming power, the Vigilance Department has arrested several high-ranking officials, including six chief engineers, a joint commissioner of the Excise Department, and various other officers on charges of bribery, embezzlement, and disproportionate assets.

"This is just the beginning, and more actions will follow. Our commitment to combat corruption remains unwavering," CM Majhi stated, highlighting the detrimental impact of corruption on development and reiterating the BJP's stance against corrupt practices. He also noted that the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system has effectively removed intermediaries, ensuring that welfare benefits reach the intended recipients directly.

The Chief Minister announced plans to establish a forensic science institute dedicated to enhancing vigilance efforts in the state.