Key Points

Despite the implementation of a fully digitised registration process, complaints indicated that certain officials were engaging in corrupt practices by extorting money.

During the raid, Minister Bawankule uncovered cash hidden in an official’s desk drawer, raising serious concerns about ongoing malpractices, said the release issued by the minister’s office. The police have been called in to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

Minister Bawankule has appealed to citizens to come forward with complaints if they encounter any demands for bribes. “We are committed to rooting out corruption and ensuring transparency in all government processes,” he stated. “I encourage the public to report any such misconduct directly to the authorities without hesitation,” he said.

The Maharashtra government remains steadfast in its zero-tolerance policy toward corruption. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses, said the minister.

Bawankule’s raid comes at a time when the state government is implementing a 150-day programme to totally transform the administration. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently said that everything will be digital, on a single platform and automated. “My focus is more on e-governance. In my last 10 years, we brought lots of government services online, but now I want end-to-end digital governance,” he claimed.

He also claimed that if anybody wants anything from the government, they need not visit an office. “We are also putting it on WhatsApp. We now have an MoU with Meta, which is also providing a payment gateway. Ultimately, we know that technology is something which increases efficiency, brings transparency. It’s also a leveller,” he further claimed.

- IANS