THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the state has been able to curb corruption, that was once a widespread menace in the state, to large extent. He stated that it is an achievement for the state. Chief Minister was speaking at the inauguration of ‘Corruption free Kerala’ campaign, launched by the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau.

“The state became successful in avoiding corruption at the leadership level. But stringent measures are taken against corruption at various levels. There was major corruption in recruitments and transfers, but it has been kept under check to a great extent, which is an admirable achievement. Corruption can be completely removed only through strict enforcement of the law and determined action. But creating public awareness on a large scale against corruption is necessary. The children today will be the youth and adults of tomorrow. So, they should fight to eradicate corruption and that’s why Vigilance is organizing such programs,” said CM.

“Although some isolated instances of corruption are reported in the state, the state has been able to curb the menace to a great extent. That is why Keralas has been honoured as the state with the least corruption in India’, he said.

‘‘Drug use is another menace in the state. It should be eradicated from Kerala. People who are addicted to drugs are unable to distinguish right or wrong, it is destroying the society. A very extensive campaign has been started in the state against this. Students, teachers, parents and locals are all part of this. On November 1, various activities will be conducted and a human chain will also be part of this. Everyone should participate in this,” stated CM.

MLA Kadakampally Sarendran presided over the function and Archbishop Catholicos of Syro-Malankara Catholic Church delivered the keynote address. Vigilance Director Manoj Abraham IPS delivered the welcome speech.

Film star Nivin Pauly was the chief guest of the function. He extended support to the government program. Vigilance IG H Venkatesh IPS and SP ES Bijumon participated in the funtion. Nivin Pauly also inaugurated a short play by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau against corruption.