Bhubaneswar: Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management department, Arabinda Kumar Padhee, has called for strict adherence to ethical standards and a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption, urging officials to place transparency, integrity and public service above all else.
In a letter addressed to officers and employees of the department, Padhee expressed deep anguish over the recent incident involving a young Odisha Revenue Service (ORS) officer who was apprehended by Vigilance authorities on allegations of accepting a bribe.
Describing the incident as a serious wake-up call, he urged officials to introspect, remain vigilant and ensure that such instances are not repeated.
Emphasising the importance of public trust, the Revenue Secretary said government service should not be viewed merely as a means of livelihood but as an opportunity to serve people and make a meaningful difference in their lives.
He, however, cautioned against allowing an isolated incident to define the image and performance of the entire department, expressing confidence that the majority of its officers and employees continue to discharge their responsibilities with sincerity, dedication and integrity.