The Tamil Nadu government has introduced a new WhatsApp helpline to make it easier for people to report bribery involving government officials.
The initiative aims to improve transparency, strengthen accountability, and encourage citizens to report corruption without facing unnecessary difficulties.
Along with the new helpline, the state government has also directed all government departments and public offices to increase public awareness about anti-corruption measures.
Citizens Can Now Report Bribery Through WhatsApp
Under the new system, anyone who is asked to pay a bribe by a government employee can send the details directly to the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) through a dedicated WhatsApp number.
The government believes that using a platform like WhatsApp, which is widely used by the public, will make it easier for people to file complaints.
This is expected to help authorities take quicker action against corrupt practices.
Anti-Corruption Boards to Be Installed in Government Offices
The Tamil Nadu government has instructed all departments, district administrations, public sector undertakings, and local bodies to install bilingual anti-corruption notice boards in public areas.
These boards will clearly state that both giving and accepting bribes are punishable offences.
They will also display the contact details of the DVAC so that people can immediately report any demand for illegal payments.
In addition to physical notice boards, government departments have also been asked to display anti-corruption messages and related information on their official websites.
Government Departments Directed to Follow the New Rules
The order has been issued to senior officials, including department heads, secretaries, and district collectors, asking them to ensure the new guidelines are implemented without delay.
According to the government, similar instructions issued in the past were not followed consistently across all offices.
The latest directive aims to ensure that the rules are implemented uniformly throughout the state.
Inspection Teams Will Monitor Compliance
To ensure the new measures are properly implemented, district-level inspection teams will regularly visit government offices.
These teams will check whether the mandatory anti-corruption boards have been installed and whether departments are following the latest guidelines.
The government hopes that regular inspections will ensure the initiative is effectively implemented rather than remaining just a formality.
A Step Towards Greater Transparency
The launch of the WhatsApp complaint helpline is part of Tamil Nadu’s broader effort to make reporting corruption simpler and more accessible.
By introducing an easy reporting system, displaying anti-corruption information in public offices, and monitoring implementation through inspections, the government aims to strengthen transparency and encourage greater public participation in the fight against corruption.
