List of corrupt officers being prepared and stringent action soon: Odisha Law Minister

The Odisha government is preparing to intensify its crackdown on corruption, with action set to be taken not only against lower-level staff but also against senior officers, including those at the rank of chief engineers.

Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said on Saturday that a list of corrupt officials is being drawn up, and the government will ensure exemplary punishment for those found guilty. This is not limited to peons and clerks. Even top-level officers will not be spared, he asserted.

“Stringent actions are being taken against those officers who are involved in corruption, and this is quite visible. Our government is committed to corruption-free governance. We will try to eradicate corruption wherever it is possible,” the Law Minister said.

The Minister further stated that the state is adopting a strict approach against organised crime. Offenders are being arrested within 24 to 48 hours and produced before the Court without delay. Compared to last year, the overall crime rate has shown a decline, he added.

Harichandan also highlighted the growing challenge posed by psychotropic chemical drugs, calling it a serious concern for the state. He assured that the government has already initiated measures to curb the menace effectively.