Latest Kerala Local News: VACB mounts vigil to trap officers taking bribes – Times of Ind
According to data compiled by the VACB, 47 cases of traps were set statewide in 2022, and the number is expected to increase further this year. In the first six months of this year, 33 entrapment cases were filed by the agency. The number of entrapment cases was 17 in 2019, it was 24 in 2020 and 30 in 2021. In the registration of vigilance cases for enrichment, embezzlement and fraud, the VACB has already registered 93 cases as of June 30 this year, compared to 82 in 2021 and 79 cases in 2020.
When officials are caught in traps, their homes and offices are raided by vigilance. As part of this research, Rs 1 crore in cash was recovered from a field assistant in the village of Palakkayam village office in Palakkad. Two doctors were arrested while accepting bribes from Thrissur and Kozhikode, from whom hundreds of thousands of rupees in cash and 1.5 kg of gold were seized by the VACB.
Despite several measures taken to fight corruption on the ground, the number of officials involved in corruption is enormous. As many as 2,019 government officials have been arrested in state vigilance cases since 2016, including seven officials who have been removed from their posts. Since the LDF government returned to power in 2021, up to 83 corruption cases have been recorded against government officials, according to government data through March. The majority (23) of the number of cases are against officials in the revenue department, nine in the panchayat department, seven in each of the local government and health departments, four in each of the registration and police departments, three in the surveying department and two in each of the legal metrology and forestry departments. One case each was recorded in the remaining departments.
This year, the agency carried out 46 confidential checks, 43 preliminary investigations, 42 due diligence investigations and 489 spot checks. “The agency will pay particular attention to departments where intermediaries or agents have been hired to collect money on behalf of officials,” the vigilance director said. Hands of Abraham.
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An Overview of Global Events in 2023
In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.
Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.
Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.
Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.
Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.
Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.
Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.
In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.