“There is a shift in Naga society from its traditional values of simplicity, hospitality, and honesty to a troubling acceptance of corruption as a norm,” said Nagaland’s Chief Information Commissioner I Meyionen Jamir. During the culmination program of the Vigilance Awareness Week held on Friday, November 1, at Nagaland University’s I Ihoshe Kinimi Hall, the CIC highlighted the disturbing trend and called for urgent collective action to fight this pervasive issue.
“It should start with transforming the mindset of the people,” the CIC said, emphasizing that the transformation must begin with educating the public on the negative impacts of corruption. “Public awareness of their rights is crucial to prevent the misappropriation of welfare schemes meant for the masses,” he said.
The CIC articulated the significance of the theme “Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity.” He asserted that integrity is not just a personal virtue but a foundation of successful societies. He explained that nurturing integrity among citizens cultivates trust, promotes cooperation, and increases transparency in governance and business practices.
The CIC also made a distinction between punitive and preventive vigilance. He explained that punitive vigilance involves timely action against officials who exhibit irregularities, while preventive vigilance seeks to minimize opportunities for malpractice through established protocols that ensure transparency and accountability. Despite numerous anti-corruption laws and enforcement agencies, he lamented the pervasive nature of corruption across various sectors, arguing that continuous public sensitization is essential. Preventive vigilance, he noted, develops an organizational culture where ethical practices are prioritized, leading to greater efficiency and effectiveness.
The CIC stressed on the significant role the educational institutions such as colleges and universities play in shaping future citizens. He vouched for the inclusion of ethical discussions in academic curricula, encouraging open dialogues about moral dilemmas to cultivate critical thinkers who are aware of the societal implications of their choices. This education, he argued, is essential for empowering youth to actively combat corruption and uphold integrity.