Corruption clampdown: Show no mercy, says CM Bhupendra Patel

GANDHINAGAR: Chief minister Bhupendra Patel adopted a tough stance against corruption and irregularities in governance, asserting that his govt will adopt a zero-tolerance policy.
Patel reportedly said this at the state Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, which was held after close to three months, as the model code of conduct for the general election was in place.
On the Rajkot TRP Game Zone investigation, state govt spokesperson Rushikesh Patel said that govt will submit the SIT's final report to the high court by June 20, following which action will be taken against all those found responsible for dereliction of duty.
"Addressing the state Cabinet, the CM referred to the suspension of Valsad collector Aayush Oak, whose actions during his stint as Surat collector led to a huge loss to the state exchequer, and the Rajkot TRP Game Zone inferno.
He asserted firmly that corruption and irregularities will not be tolerated and henceforth, firm action will be taken in such cases," sources said, adding that instances like the suspension of Oak reflect badly on governance and state govt's image.
The sources added that the CM told the Cabinet that the Rajkot tragedy has brought into focus the role of multiple agencies and it should be the collective effort of various agencies and departments to ensure that rules and regulations regarding safety of people at amusement places are followed strictly.
"The CM said that all departments will need to be extremely diligent in ensuring that such tragedies do not take place in the future," the sources said, adding, "He told the meeting that officials getting suspended for dereliction of duty reflects poorly on state govt."
Meanwhile, ACS home, A K Rakesh convened a video conference of all municipal commissioners, police commissioners, SPs and collectors on Wednesday, directing them to crack down on illegal constructions and those who violate fire safety norms.
Speaking to the media after the Cabinet briefing, Rushikesh Patel said that govt received the preliminary report of the SIT investigating the Rajkot inferno on May 31.
"Govt will take whatever action necessary after completion of the inquiry," the minister assured.
The Cabinet also passed a resolution, commending Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his third consecutive term in office and thanked him for allotting six ministerial berths to MPs from Gujarat in the Modi 3.0 govt. Patel also said that the annual school enrolment drive - Praveshotsav, will be held at the end of this month.