Kerala launches 'Project Zero' to combat corruption; citizens to receive ₹5,000 for video evidence

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a bid to eradicate institutional corruption, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has unveiled 'Project Zero,' a major public-driven initiative spearheaded by the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau. Under the new scheme, citizens who capture and submit verified video evidence of government officials demanding or accepting bribes will be awarded a cash prize of ₹5,000.

The announcement was made during a press conference at the Vigilance Headquarters, following a high-level review meeting. This anti-graft campaign follows closely on the heels of the government's recent anti-narcotics drive, 'Operation Toofan - The Narco Hunt.'

"Corrupt officials will not be tolerated under any circumstances," Minister Chennithala stated. "Access to corruption-free public service is a fundamental right of the citizens, not a charity extended by the government."

Leveraging technology for transparency

Project Zero aims to foster a transparent and accountable administrative framework by leveraging citizen journalism and modern technology.

• Evidence Submission: Citizens can securely upload video proof of malpractice directly onto the official Vigilance web portal.
• Verification & Reward: The financial incentive of ₹5,000 will be disbursed to the informants immediately after a rigorous verification process by Vigilance authorities.
• Whistleblower Protection: To ensure public safety and encourage participation, the identity of the whistleblowers will remain strictly confidential.

Preventive governance and policy overhaul

The Home Minister emphasised that the project focuses heavily on prevention rather than mere detection. To align the department with modern challenges, the government will overhaul the outdated Vigilance Manual, which has been in place since 1969. Furthermore, surprise inspections and flash raids across state offices will be intensified.

During the event, Minister Chennithala officially launched the 'Project Zero' logo, presenting it to Vigilance Director Manoj Abraham. The briefing was also attended by former DGP and Home Department Advisor A. Hemachandran, alongside Inspector General Thomson Jose.