Corruption a Direct Assault on Citizens’ Lives, Says LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu, Mar 8: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said corruption is not just the loss of public money but a direct attack on the lives and opportunities of citizens, particularly the youth.

Speaking after inaugurating the new Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) headquarters at Sidhra in Jammu and the ACB APKS Branch at Awantipora, the Lieutenant Governor said the facilities symbolise the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public administration.

Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir has undergone significant reforms over the past five to six years aimed at making governance more transparent and focused on public service. He added that the system now works for the benefit of all citizens rather than a select few.

The Lt Governor emphasised the need for strong coordination among investigating agencies to tackle corruption effectively. In today’s interconnected world, he said, information held by one agency can become crucial evidence in another investigation.

He also stressed the importance of time-bound investigations, noting that delays in probing corruption cases weaken justice and undermine public trust. Sinha urged officials to maintain strict professional standards and conduct regular self-assessments to strengthen institutional credibility.

Highlighting the broader impact of corruption, he said it deprives young people of opportunities and undermines the security and welfare of families, adding that its consequences can affect generations.

The newly established ACB APKS Branch at Awantipora will serve the ACB Police Station in Anantnag and cover all districts of South Kashmir, helping improve efficiency in handling complaints and investigations.

Several senior officials, including Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, ACB Director Shakti Kumar Pathak, and other top administrative and police officers, were present on the occasion.