Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption, Assam crippled with many problems

GUWAHATI: Many factors have seriously hit functioning of the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption, Assam. The Directorate lacks adequate infrastructure, manpower, transport and funds to effectively carry out the mandated tasks. Besides, frequent transfers of its officials and lack of fixed tenures have reportedly lowered the morale of its officials. These facts have come to light in a report of the Department-related standing committee (2020-2021) of the Assam Legislative Assembly.

The Directorate conducts inquiries and investigates cases against corrupt officials. A total of 85 corrupt officials were arrested in 67 cases since May 25, 2016 till February 29, 2020. Altogether 107 cases are presently under investigation of the Directorate. While investigation is on in 107 cases, 324 regular inquiries are in progress, stated the report

Though the Directorate has a sanctioned strength of 88 personnel, the present strength is short by 14 officials — it has 74 personnel now.

In order to make it more effective and increase its reach, the report has proposed that Zonal Offices should be set up at Dibrugarh, Sonitpur, Nagaon, Bongaigaon and Silchar with adequate manpower and infrastructure.

The report added, "At present, there is no fixed tenure of officers posted to the Directorate and transfers are frequent because of which its working is adversely affected. There is also lack of motivation and investigation experience among Enquiry Officers. Besides, there is also lack of Technical Experts, Accounts Officers and Law Officers.

"Conducting more numbers of traps will have a salutary effect on corrupt public servants. However, lack of manpower is a major constraint. Therefore, strengthening the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption will have a good impact on combating corruption in the society and public delivering systems."

The 'Directorate of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption' headed by an IGP-rank officer was established in 1983. It was in 1946 that the Anti-Corruption branch of the State came into existence. The branch was headed by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (SP)-level officer. It was under the overall control and supervision of DIG, CID, Assam.

Also Watch: Get Set Global: Assam for Global Assamese & Their Contributions