Chandigarh, 27 October (H.S.): The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) is observing Vigilance Awareness Week from October 26 to November 1, 2026, in accordance with the nationwide initiative of the Central Vigilance Commission. This year’s theme, “Probity for Prosperity,” highlights the importance of integrity, transparency and ethical governance.

During a ceremony at the Vigilance Bureau headquarters in Mohali, officers and employees took a collective integrity pledge against corruption.

The pledge was administered by Swarandeep Singh, Joint Director, in the presence of Special DGP-cum-Chief Director Dr. Sharad Satya Chauhan, Joint Directors Prabhjot Kaur and Deyama Harish Kumar Omprakash, and DIG Harpreet Singh.

Dr. Sharad Satya Chauhan said the campaign aims to educate citizens about their role in preventing corruption and strengthening transparency in public offices.

He emphasised that sustainable development and public prosperity depend on accountability and institutional integrity.

All Vigilance Bureau range SSPs have been directed to organise awareness programmes in rural and urban areas. Officials will interact directly with citizens to gather information about corrupt practices and ensure prompt action.

The Bureau will intensify awareness about the Chief Minister’s Anti-Corruption Action Line, available on WhatsApp at 9501200200.

Introduced in March 2022, the platform enables citizens to submit corruption-related complaints confidentially through audio and video messages. Awareness banners displaying vigilance officers’ contact information will be installed at prominent public locations. Seminars and workshops will also be organised in educational institutions and government offices to promote ethical conduct.

Dr. Chauhan instructed officials to maintain strict confidentiality of official records and uphold integrity in their professional and personal responsibilities.

Highlighting the Bureau’s enforcement record, Dr. Chauhan stated that 1,118 corruption cases were registered between March 2022 and September 30, 2026, leading to the arrest of 1,156 accused persons.

He appealed to citizens to immediately report demands for bribes or illegal favours and cooperate with the authorities.

Reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance approach, he warned that anyone found involved in corruption or misappropriation would face strict legal consequences.

The campaign will continue across Punjab until November 1, encouraging public participation in building a transparent, accountable and corruption-free administration.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH