Intelligence wing tasked with compiling details
The TVK government has directed the intelligence wing to gather information on government officials and staff allegedly involved in bribery and corruption, according to reports from Coimbatore.
WhatsApp helpline and impact on offices
Chief Minister Vijay has said citizens need not pay bribes to access government services and that there is no need to pay party funds. He has also published a WhatsApp number to report bribe demands, stating that messages sent to the helpline will be verified and action will follow.
Allegations of continued collection methods
After the announcement, officials are said to be anxious and open bribe-taking has reportedly reduced. However, the report claims some staff avoid direct pressure and instead accept payments when offered. It also alleges that some officials who earlier obtained postings by paying money are now pushing lower-level staff to collect bribes to recover those amounts.
Departments named and possible action
The report says bribery complaints continue in offices including the registration department, electricity board, revenue department, survey department and municipal offices, with complaints still reaching the WhatsApp number. The government has asked for details on who is taking bribes, who has been in the same post for years, and where such practices are prevalent—covering bodies such as municipalities, PWD, highways, taluk offices, RDO offices, collectorates and the transport department. Based on the intelligence report, departmental action or transfers across districts may follow, the report adds.
