Bhubaneswar: In a bid to strengthen the administrative system and prevent corruption, Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has directed all departments and District Collectors to take strong steps against corruption. In a letter to senior officials, Ahuja emphasised the State Government’s commitment to transparent, citizen-centric administration.
Citing recent corruption cases identified by the Anti-Corruption Department, Ahuja stressed the need for proactive and continuous attention to eliminate the root causes of corruption through administrative, legal, social, economic, and educational measures. He highlighted the importance of identifying sensitive areas and taking proactive steps to prevent corruption, as recommended by the ‘Santhanam Committee’.
To enhance transparency and accountability, Ahuja directed departments to adopt e-procurement, e-tendering, and third-party certification in procurement and contract management. He also emphasised the implementation of online replacement policies, rotation of employees in sensitive positions, and simplification of rules to reduce discretionary powers.
The Chief Secretary has also instructed departments to leverage initiatives like ‘Aam Adhikar’ and systems like WAMIS and Work Pass Book to provide citizens with real-time information and increase accountability. Furthermore, he directed the establishment of Internal Vigilance Committees (IVCs) to identify sensitive areas and prepare action plans to prevent corruption.
Ahuja emphasised the need for a zero-tolerance culture towards corruption and regular reviews with senior officers. He concluded that strong preventive awareness will help realise a people-centric government, and these instructions must reach all officers to ensure prompt action.
