International Anti-Corruption Day: Gujarat CM honours ACB officers and citizens who exposed corruption
On December 10, 2023, the Gujarat administration demonstrated its pledge to clean governance in Gandhinagar. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi gathered to honor Anti‑Corruption Bureau (ACB) officers who had delivered exemplary service, and to recognize ordinary citizens who bravely lodged complaints that ultimately exposed corrupt officials.
A highlight of the occasion was the presentation of certificates to twelve students who won statewide essay and elocution contests focused on anti‑corruption awareness.
During the ceremony—organized by the Gujarat ACB to mark International Anti‑Corruption Day—Chief Minister Patel remarked that rejecting ill‑earned gains has been a moral cornerstone of Indian culture. He added that true duty shows itself when one feels genuine pride in honest work. Patel underscored the need for the ACB to project a stern, vigilant image so that anyone tempted to act wrongfully lives under a persistent fear of being caught, thereby fostering an environment where corruption cannot flourish.
Deputy CM Sanghavi emphasized the state’s aggressive anti‑corruption stance under the current leadership, pointing to a record number of compulsory retirements in recent years as evidence of the CM’s firm approach. He lauded the ACB for taking action against not only low‑level functionaries but also senior government officials. Over the past three years, the ACB has apprehended 34 Class‑I and 98 Class‑II officers, filed 194 cases this year alone, and secured the arrest of 277 accused persons. Sanghavi also urged the use of technology—including artificial intelligence—to strengthen vigilance systems and streamline responses to corruption complaints.
Chief Secretary M.K. Das noted that corruption is a worldwide problem that hampers progress, especially hurting the poorest communities. He explained that, under the CM’s leadership, Gujarat has introduced sweeping reforms: simplifying regulations, boosting ease of doing business, and revising revenue laws to slash opportunities for corruption.
During the event, ACB Director Piyush Patel outlined the wide range of awareness campaigns carried out during “Vigilance Awareness Week.” These included essay and speech competitions in schools, street plays, marathons, integrity pledges in government offices, and public outreach campaigns that highlighted the ACB’s helpline number 1064. Senior officials such as Vigilance Commissioner Sangeeta Singh, CID Crime & Railways DGP Dr K.L.N. Rao, NFSU Vice‑Chancellor Dr J.M. Vyas, along with ACB staff, students, and courageous citizens who reported corruption, were in attendance.
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