Bhubaneswar: The state Vigilance has observed the State level Vigilance Awareness Week-2009 here on Saturday at Rabindra Mandap. The Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik graced the Occasion as Chief Guest. The Chief Minister said "The State Vigilance Department has earned the reputation of being one of the best anti-corruption wings in our country and I must congratulate the department for its constant fight against corruption."

The Chief Minister further expressed that the Honesty and transparency are twin pillars of democracy.  The Right to Information Act which has come into force is a great stride forward in achieving these twin goals.

He said, "The record of my Government in fighting the menace of corruption is well known.  In maintaining the rule of law and in maintaining integrity in public life, our Government makes no compromises.  Over the years, my government has established its commitment to eradicate corruption. "

"You have just taken a solemn oath not to offer bribes to anyone and maintain absolute honesty in all your daily dealings. People should come forward in exposing the corrupt.  Today, the state is marching ahead in all spheres of development.  Hence, it is all the more important for each one of us to ensure that corrupt practices do not derail the process of economic growth and development."

Further he said, "My Government has set up new Vigilance Courts at Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Balasore, Bolangir and  Jeypore .  Under the Special Court Act, new Special Courts have been set up at Bhubaneswar and Cuttack for speedy trial of disproportionate assets’ cases involving persons who are holding   public office.  Further, steps are being taken for initiating confiscation proceedings against them."

"The pledge we have taken today, I am sure, will go a long way in spreading the message of honesty and integrity as a way of life, and to be practiced by one and all, for the betterment of our State and our Nation", he added.

Among others Lokpal Justice P.K.Patra, Member of Parliament Dr. Prasanna Patasani, Chief Secretary Tarunkanti Mishra, Director-Cum- D.G & IG  of Police Anup Kumar Patnaik were present.