‘Protect the Government’s Reputation or Face Tough Action’: CM D.K. Shivakumar Warns Excise Officials
Bengaluru, June 26: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday issued a stern warning to Excise Department officials, saying the government would not tolerate any action that tarnishes its reputation and cautioning that stringent measures, including legal changes to enable transfers, could be taken against erring personnel.
Chairing a progress review meeting of the Excise Department at the Conference Hall of Vidhana Soudha, the Chief Minister said the credibility of the government depends on the professionalism and integrity of its officers.
“If you uphold your dignity, the government’s reputation will grow. But if you do anything that brings disrepute to the government, we will not remain silent,” Shivakumar told the officials.
He rejected the perception that Excise Department personnel cannot be transferred to other departments because of existing service rules.
“Do not assume that Excise Department staff and officers cannot be transferred. If required, we have the option of bringing in the necessary legal amendments to facilitate such transfers. I am giving you a clear warning—work with utmost caution,” he said.
The Chief Minister made it clear that the government would not tolerate any individual or any attempt that brings disrepute to the administration.
Reviewing the department’s performance, Shivakumar noted that the newly introduced AIB system has delivered encouraging results and has led to the expected improvement in departmental functioning.
He also announced that the government has decided to conduct e-auctions for 574 new excise licences as part of efforts to strengthen the sector.
In another relief measure, the Chief Minister directed the department to allow licence holders to pay their licence renewal fee in two instalments.
Referring to the functioning of excise administrations in neighbouring states, Shivakumar said he had reviewed their performance and urged Karnataka officials to work harder to achieve the revenue targets assigned to the department.
“When officers maintain their integrity, the department’s reputation is protected. When the department’s reputation is protected, the government’s reputation is strengthened. Demonstrate the professionalism needed to uphold the government’s credibility. Otherwise, strict action will become inevitable,” he warned.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came during the Excise Department’s progress review meeting held at Vidhana Soudha on Friday.
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