CVC to bring in 'perception index' on corruption in govt depts

The Central Vigilance Commission will introduce a "perception index" in different government departments and public sector organisations from next year to assess the public perception vis-a-vis corruption.
"We will measure people's perception on a Perception Index on different departments with respect to corruption. This is the first time we are undertaking such an exercise and to begin with we will have perception index in 25 departments and organisations on a trial basis," Central Vigilance Commissioner K V Chowdary said here today.
This would be a widespread assessment of public perception on the government departments, he told reporters this afternoon.
Various IIMs in the country have devised the criteria for measuring the Perception Index. Based on this, the departments would be rated on a numerical scale, he added.

"To begin with, the new measure will cover departments like CBDT, railways, two banks and others. Based on the ratings, the respective departments can take necessary remedial measures to curb corruption," Chowdary said, adding that the system could subsequently be expanded to cover all government departments.
The CVC said the new Whistleblowers Act, though passed by Parliament, was yet to be implemented as relevant notifications were to be issued. Hence, the old Act was still being implemented, he added.

Chowdary further said that certain amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act, to make it more stronger and effective, were pending before Parliament.

He said about 3,500 cases of corruption, filed by the CBI, were pending trial in various courts for over five years now.
"We need to amend the laws to strengthen the special courts dealing with corruption cases for speedy disposal of the cases," Chowdary said.
He said prevention of corruption was not government's duty or responsibility alone, but people should also contribute in their own way to check the menace.
"As part of the vigilance awareness week this year we are administering a pledge to all that they will work towards eliminating corruption," the CVC pointed out.