In a state where people once feared reporting corrupt officials, the arrival of Shatrujeet Kapoor, the Director-General of Haryana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), has instilled newfound confidence in the public. Now, citizens are eager to assist Kapoor’s department in apprehending corrupt officers. Recognizing this spirit, DGP Shatrujeet Kapoor felicitated 24 complainants from Ambala and Panchkula divisions with appreciation letters. Under this renewed determination, citizens have also exposed corruption within the ACB, leading to arrests for bribery. In 2023, the ACB registered 205 cases (including 152 raids), marking the second-highest number in the past decade. During the same period, the bureau conducted 152 raids, recovering Rs 86,12,300 on the spot. The ACB arrested 30 gazetted officers, 156 non-gazetted officers, and 40 private individuals, totaling 186 government officials during 2023.
Call to action: Join the anti-corruption campaign
Director-General Shatrujeet Kapoor urges citizens to actively participate in the ongoing anti-corruption campaign. Previously, 24 complainants from Panchkula and Ambala were honored for their support. Kapoor highlighted that out of 205 cases last year, 152 were based on raids, averaging 16 government officials arrested each month. The ACB has actively supported the Haryana government’s zero-tolerance policy, resulting in a record number of corruption-related cases, bringing accountability to government offices.
ACB’s helpline proves effective
Kapoor emphasized the effectiveness of the ACB helpline, which operates 24/7 and receives information from citizens engaged in the fight against corruption. He urged complainants to provide feedback, underlining the crucial role they play in successful raids. District-level ACB offices have also been established, ensuring operational efficiency. Even after raids, the ACB assists complainants in resolving pending issues related to their cases.
Proposal to attach assets of corrupt public servants
The ACB has submitted proposals to the government to attach the assets of corrupt public servants. After government approval, cases will be filed in court to seize assets acquired through illegal means. The ACB has recommended investigations against 12 gazetted officers, 10 non-gazetted officers, and 7 private individuals, resulting in 31 inquiries. In 2023, the ACB completed 82 inquiries, recommended action in 45 cases, and submitted 10 technical reports to the government.
Crackdown on lower-level employees and senior officers
Kapoor shared that the ACB has strategically transferred lower-level employees, such as clerks, patwaris, linemen, and police constables, to break the organized corruption networks. This shift is aligned with Chief Minister Manohar Lal’s directives for a comprehensive clean-up across all levels. The notable increase in arrests of middlemen and senior government officials reflects the ACB’s commitment to the zero-tolerance policy, envisioned as a cleansing campaign by the Chief Minister.