F.A.Q. — How Can I Take Action Against Corruption?

1. What should I do if I witness or experience corruption?

Do not ignore it. First, remain calm and collect the basic facts. Note what happened, when and where it happened, who was involved, what was demanded or offered, and what evidence is lawfully available. You should avoid confrontation or taking unnecessary personal risks.

2. What are the basic steps for taking action?

Step 1 — Understand the situation:
Make sure you have reasonable grounds for your concern rather than relying only on rumours or assumptions.

Step 2 — Record the facts:
Keep relevant documents, receipts, messages, letters, application numbers and other evidence that you are legally entitled to possess.

Step 3 — Identify the appropriate authority:
Depending on the matter, a complaint may be made to the concerned department’s vigilance authority, competent government authority, police or another legally authorised body. For certain public-interest disclosures concerning corruption or misuse of office, the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has an authorised role in receiving complaints under the applicable framework.

Step 4 — Submit a clear complaint:
State the facts chronologically and attach relevant supporting material. Avoid exaggeration, abusive language or unsupported allegations.

Step 5 — Keep the acknowledgement:
Maintain a copy of the complaint, supporting documents and acknowledgement/reference number so that you can follow up through the proper channel.

Step 6 — Follow up lawfully:
If necessary, seek the status of your complaint through the appropriate authority or procedure. Do not attempt to investigate, threaten or punish the suspected person yourself.

3. What precautions should I take?

• Do not put yourself in danger.

• Do not threaten, blackmail or confront a suspected corrupt person.

• Do not manufacture, alter or secretly obtain evidence through unlawful means.

• Protect personal information and confidential documents.

• Keep backup copies of your complaint and supporting records in a secure place.

• Do not publish someone’s name or allegations on social media without proper verification and legal consideration.

• Use official complaint mechanisms wherever possible.

• If you fear retaliation, seek information about the applicable whistleblower/protection mechanisms. The CVC framework includes provisions concerning protection of informers in the relevant public-interest disclosure process.

4. Should I pay a bribe if someone demands one?

A bribe should not be treated as a normal or acceptable way of obtaining a public service. If you encounter a demand for a bribe, document the circumstances safely and consider reporting it promptly to the appropriate authority. Do not put yourself at risk merely to collect evidence.

5. Can ordinary citizens help fight corruption?

Yes. Fighting corruption is not only the responsibility of government agencies. Citizens can contribute by refusing to participate in corrupt practices, asking for transparency, maintaining proper records, reporting genuine concerns through lawful channels and educating others about their rights and responsibilities.

6. What is the role of an organisation such as CSIC?

CSIC can support citizens through anti-corruption awareness programmes, educational workshops, guidance on lawful complaint procedures, community awareness and promotion of transparency and accountability. Its role should be to empower citizens with information and help them approach the appropriate legal authorities rather than acting as a substitute for government investigative or law-enforcement agencies.

Remember

Observe → Record → Verify → Report → Preserve the acknowledgement → Follow up lawfully.

The purpose of taking action against corruption is not to target individuals unfairly, but to promote integrity, transparency, accountability and public trust. Always use the legally applicable complaint mechanism and avoid actions that could compromise your safety or the integrity of the complaint.