Zero Tolerance on Corruption: Odisha CM Majhi Warns Graft-Ridden Officials
Bhubaneswar: Reaffirming the Odisha government’s commitment to transparent governance, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday launched the state-level Anti-Corruption Awareness Week and administered an oath of integrity to government officials at Lok Seva Bhavan.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister reiterated his government’s “zero tolerance” policy against corruption and stressed that public funds must reach beneficiaries without leakage.
He said corruption hampers development and erodes public trust, making accountability and honesty essential pillars of governance.
Highlighting the state vigilance department’s performance, Majhi noted that Odisha Vigilance has significantly improved its conviction rate, rising from 50 per cent in 2025 to 65 per cent by September 2026.
He credited the achievement to stronger investigations and focused legal action against corrupt public servants.
The Chief Minister revealed that strict disciplinary measures have been taken against government employees found guilty of corruption.
A total of 41 officials have been dismissed from service following convictions, while pensions of 91 retired officials have been permanently withheld.
Action has also been initiated against several senior officers, including an IAS officer, Chief Engineers, District Forest Officers, Tehsildars and Block Development Officers.
Majhi outlined a three-pronged anti-corruption strategy centred on zero tolerance towards corruption, intelligence-based enforcement without regard to rank, and maximising conviction rates through effective prosecution.
He also emphasised the role of technology in curbing corruption and ensuring transparency.
The Chief Minister highlighted the success of the JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) framework in reducing leakages in welfare delivery and announced the establishment of a Preventive Vigilance Research Wing to proactively identify corruption-prone areas within government systems.
The event, organised under the theme “From Integrity to Prosperity,” called upon public servants to embrace honesty and ethical conduct as a way of life.
Senior government officials, vigilance officers and administrative personnel participated in the programme.
On the occasion, awards were presented to outstanding vigilance divisions and officers for their contributions to anti-corruption efforts.
The Vigilance Division at Koraput and the Vigilance Unit at Angul were among those recognised for exemplary performance.
The state government’s renewed anti-corruption push reflects its focus on strengthening accountability, improving governance standards and ensuring that development benefits reach citizens efficiently and transparently.
