Kolkata, Aug 12 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the adverse effects of corruption are most acutely felt by the impoverished and marginalized communities. He noted that corruption disrupts resource allocation, markets, and erodes the overall quality of life for individuals.
Speaking virtually at the G-20 anti-corruption Ministerial meeting in Kolkata, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against corruption. He drew attention to the wisdom of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who warned against greed as a hindrance to recognizing truths.
Modi highlighted India’s vigorous pursuit of economic offenders, citing the enactment of the economic offender act that has resulted in the recovery of assets exceeding 1.8 billion dollars from fugitives and economic wrongdoers.
Regarding the G-20’s role in the fight against corruption, Modi stressed the potential of collective efforts to make a substantial impact. He recalled his presentation of a comprehensive 9-point action plan during the 2018 G-20 summit to counter fugitive economic offenders and facilitate asset recovery. The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction with the progress being made by the G-20 group in implementing decisive measures.
Modi underscored the significance of respecting audit institutions in the battle against corruption. He also highlighted the success in plugging leaks in welfare schemes, resulting in the direct transfer of 360 billion dollars to individuals in India.
