BANGALORE: For the first time, a Minister has made his cellphone number public so that people can bring to his attention instances of corruption, harassment and inefficiency in government offices.

Revenue Minister and BJP State unit President Jagadish Shettar said on Thursday that he will make efforts to check corruption in his department.

He told presspersons he is aware of corruption, particularly in the offices of tahsildars, sub-registrars, assistant commissioners and deputy commissioners. He said action will be taken against those found guilty of corruption. Those who want to make a specific complaint can call him on 94481-46123, he added.

Mr. Shettar said he has directed officials to prepare a list of corruption cases registered by the Lokayukta and the action proposed against them. "If we initiate action against such officials, it will send the right message to the people," he added.

After the next session of the legislature, the Government will issue a circular directing officials of the Revenue Department to provide caste and income certificates to applicants within three days. It is unfortunate that people are made to wait for long to obtain certificates, and this is one reason for corruption. The record of tenancy certificate (known as "RTC"), which is now made available at Rs. 15 a copy, will be issued at Rs. 5, he said.

About the survey of encroachment on government lands in and around Bangalore, he said he has called for the report and will examine it. His predecessor, M.P. Prakash, had ordered the survey. As per preliminary findings, nearly 5,000 acres of prime land around Bangalore has been encroached upon. In most cases, politicians have extended support to land grabbers, he said.

Hubli Staff Correspondent reports:

Addressing presspersons in Hubli before taking part in a review meeting, Mr. Shettar said the Government is thinking of extending the "Bhoomi project" to the hobli level.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu