The fight against corruption is not against the government.  Though often misunderstood,  It is only meant to strengthen the government, said U Sagayam, Vice Chairman of Science City, at the annual conference hosted by the Coimbatore chapter of the Anti-Corruption Movement.

Twelve officials from various government departments like TANGEDCO, Revenue and Public Works Department (PWD), police department, Government Hospital (GH), Agriculture, and Forest Department were honoured with certificates for serving their posts with honesty.

The seminar, ‘Save our Mother Land,’ was held at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) yesterday.

Known for his anti-corruption activities, Sagayam, currently based out of Chennai, told reporters that the fight against corruption was not against the government. “Most often war against corruption is highly misunderstood. The fight against corruption will only strengthen the Government in all possible ways,” he said.

The IAS officer who has a signboard behind his seat reads, ‘Reject bribes, hold your head high,’ informed the media that he had submitted all documents pertaining to the illegal mining scam to the court. He was positive that the judgement will be fair. He clarified that he carried out the probe upon instructions from the court.

Commenting on the awards that he had given away to honest officials from the various departments, Sagayam said that it was very difficult to find honest people these days as honesty has become a rarity. ‘Such initiatives are necessary as they will motivate the youth to refrain from corruption,” he said.

Today’s youth do not think on their own.  They should be decisive in their fight against corruption. The District  Collectors have  enormous power to serve public but several don’t utilise them, he stated.   The audience, most of whom were students, were asked  to take a pledge stating that it was wring  to offer bribe as much as it is to take. They also pledged to abolish alcohol, tobacco, drugs and corruption if they take up responsible positions in society.