Root out corruption to make Viksit Bharat: Kashmir central varsity dean

The Vigilance Awareness Week — observed by the Central University of Kashmir (CU Kashmir) to honour the legacy of first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — ended on Friday, according to a university statement.

The statement said addressing the valedictory function, Dean Academic Affairs and Chief Vigilance Officer, Prof Shahid Rasool, said that to achieve the dream of a “viksit Bharat” by 2047, it is crucial to address the root causes of corruption and work towards its eradication.

“Corruption-free India can channel its resources more effectively towards healthcare, education, infrastructure and technological advancements, ensuring inclusive growth and improved quality of life for all citizens,” he said. Shahid said the higher educational institutions could contribute immensely by instilling moral and ethical values in young minds. “Students should be encouraged to uphold integrity and view corruption as detrimental to society’s well-being,” he said.

Waseem Qadri, Senior Superintendent of Police, Ganderbal, highlighted various forms of corruption from bribery and embezzlement to nepotism and fraud, affecting every section of society.

“Corruption is a multifaceted challenge that requires a holistic approach to address effectively. Through a combination of transparency, digitalisation, robust institutions, protective laws and ethical education, societies can work towards reducing corruption and fostering a culture of integrity,” he said, adding that that when public systems are more responsive and less troublesome, people are less inclined to resort to corrupt practices to navigate those.

Executive Engineer, Anti-Corruption Bureau, Aijaz Masood, underscored the need to sensitise the masses about the adverse effects of corruption on the families of those indulging in it. “The families of corrupt persons suffer immensely and get socially ostracised, after they are trapped by the law enforcement agencies,” he said.

Prosecuting Officer, Anti-Corruption Bureau, John Mohammad, in his address, said civic responsibility initiatives, supported by the media and civil society, could foster a culture of accountability where citizens actively participate in combating corruption. He noted that citizens also play a pivotal role in holding individuals and institutions accountable. “Reporting corruption is not merely an option. It is a civic duty that strengthens governance, promotes transparency and builds a fair society,” he said.