Kohima, October 24 (MExN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today said lack of awareness and ‘lethargy’ of the public offer a fertile ground for corruption to breed. This situation needs to be changed, said Rio in his message as the state observes ‘Vigilance Awareness Week’, October 25-November 1.
Rio said corruption is largely identified with the abuse of official authority. Due to corruption, scarce resources meant for the public’s benefit or productive economic activities, are wasted. This affects the economic growth and development of the country, he explained. Maintaining that lack of awareness and ‘lethargy’ of the public also provide a fertile ground for corruption to flourish, he said this needs to be changed.
“Despite all these, India is still one of the fastest-growing economies of the world today. Imagine how much better things could have been without this chronic scourge of corruption that eats away huge resources every year,” he said.
The chief minister said corruption is not an evil that can be fought and removed merely by imposition of punishment. Success in removing corruption depends on the determination and commitment of every citizen – politicians, officials, businessmen or ordinary citizens. It also requires identification and documentation of the root causes of corruption, proper sensitization of the public and all stakeholders so that ‘together we can all work to eradicate this disease from the society.’
