Punitive and preventive vigilance to stop corruption in Nagaland

November 2, 2024 7 Views No Comment

DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 2 (MExN): Addressing the pressing issue of corruption and the importance of vigilance, Nagaland’s Chief Information Commissioner I. Meyionen Jamir emphasized a two-fold approach—punitive and preventive vigilance—during the culmination program of Vigilance Awareness Week at Nagaland University on November 1. Speaking at the event held at the I. Ihoshe Kinimi Hall, Jamir highlighted the need to root out corruption through timely action and preventive strategies that minimize opportunities for malpractice.

Jamir detailed that punitive vigilance requires swift measures against officials involved in irregularities, while preventive vigilance focuses on creating protocols that foster transparency and accountability. Despite existing anti-corruption laws, he expressed concern about the persistent presence of corruption across sectors and stressed the importance of continuous public sensitization to build an ethical organizational culture that prioritizes transparency.

The Chief Information Commissioner also remarked on a concerning shift in Naga society away from its traditional values of simplicity, hospitality, and honesty, toward an acceptance of corruption. He urged a collective transformation in mindset, driven by public awareness of rights and the social harms of corruption. He underlined that educating individuals on these detrimental effects is essential to preserve the integrity of welfare schemes and prevent their misuse.

As the Chief Guest, Jamir highlighted this year’s Vigilance Awareness Week theme, “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity,” emphasizing that integrity serves as a cornerstone for cohesive and transparent societies. He encouraged educational institutions to promote a culture of integrity that would inspire students to value honesty, accountability, and mutual respect—principles that foster a more robust social fabric and advance personal and national development.

Jamir advocated for ethical education in academic curricula to encourage open discussions on moral challenges and to set examples of integrity through actions. This educational approach, he noted, equips future generations with the skills and motivation to combat and prevent corruption, thereby cultivating critical thinkers who are aware of the impact of their decisions on their communities and nation.

In his address, Jamir cited inspirational leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Nelson Mandela, who exemplified integrity and moral courage, underscoring their importance as models for society. He also quoted Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who once said, “I work with integrity and succeed with integrity,” to illustrate that these principles are the backbone of a healthy society and a prosperous nation.

Nagaland University Vice Chancellor Prof. J.K. Patnaik, in his brief address, underscored the importance of individual freedom and its role in sustaining democracy. He emphasized that the rule of law, transparency, and accountability are essential to uphold citizens’ rights and foster a society rooted in integrity.

The program began with a welcome address by Prof. Dipak Sinha, Chief Vigilance Officer of Nagaland University, who recapped the activities held during Vigilance Awareness Week. Chaired by Dr. Pitheli K. Jimo from the Department of Sociology, the event concluded with a vote of thanks by NU Public Relations Officer Peter Ki. The program saw the participation of university deans, faculty, heads of departments, administrative staff, and students, reflecting a collective commitment to a culture of integrity and vigilance.