TN CM pitches for delivering corruption-free govt, warns ministers against graft

Chennai, Jul 16 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Thursday pitched for delivering a corruption-free governance, stressing upon administrative integrity. Chairing a Cabinet meeting, the second since he took up the reins as chief minister in May, Vijay warned his cabinet colleagues against any corrupt practices and said the tainted ministers will be stripped of their posts, sources said. He reiterated that the TVK government will maintain absolute zero-tolerance against graft. Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar quoting the chief minister's stand against corruption, told reporters that the government has issued strict warning against corruption - no percentage cuts - and encouraged citizens to report bribery through toll-free numbers and official email channels. Although the Cabinet primarily focusses on policy making, legislative proposals and state administration, addressing the issue of corruption fell within its purview, the source said. The meet could also be used to issue strict behavioral guidelines and ethical standards or directly warn the ministers. The chief minister's warning comes in the backdrop of the government rolling out a dedicated citizen anti-bribery Whatsapp helpline 9898180936. Addressing a meeting in Karur on July 10, Vijay had urged the public to fight against corruption by refusing to bribe officials. "If someone asks you for a bribe, refuse them. I will be with you. Tell them our son, brother, our Vijay is the one ruling the state. Tell them emphatically," the CM had said. Briefing reporters about the Cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat, Kumar said "this government does not have a concept of 'percentage' (bribes) anywhere. If someone violates this and commits a mistake, and if it is brought to the government's notice, the government will take action". During the Cabinet meet, the chief Minister discussed several issues including welfare measures, announcements to be included in the upcoming Budget, new industrial projects, department plans or proposals, and a roadmap for implementing the poll promises outlined in the TVK's vision document. PTI JSP JSP SA