Just 20-30% officials are honest: Uday Veer Singh

Dr Uday Veer Singh, 55, a 1985 batch Karnataka cadre Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, is considered to be the man who exposed illegal mining in Karnataka. He came to fame after the illegal mining scam report of the Karnataka Lokayukta when BS Yeddyurappa was the chief minister of the state. He was the principal investigator for the Karnataka Lokayukta inquiry into illegal mining in the state.
An officer perceived to be very tough with the corrupt, Dr Singh is currently the CEO of Medicinal Plants Authority, Karnataka. He is also assisting the MB Shah Commission that is investigating illegal mining in Goa, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

In an interview with dna's Naveen Ammembala, Dr Singh said that he would take up a fight against corruption after his retirement.

Excerpts from the interview:

How do you look at the progress in the fight against corruption in the country?
Basically, corruption has almost become like a dragon and it's very difficult to control it. There are many intricacies involved in controlling it, and corrupt people are taking advantage of it. It's definitely affecting the progress of our country, which is rich with natural resources. Corruption is a dent on democracy and the progress of the nation. The magnitude of corruption is debatable as there are various perceptions about it. However, corruption is one of the biggest ailments facing the country.

How do you see elections and change of governments in terms of fighting corruption?
That is not my jurisdiction as I am a government servant. But as a citizen, I have a lot to tell about it. Right now, I can't say anything. I will speak after retirement.

Did you get a promotion after your battle against illegal mining?
Yes, I got normal promotions. As far as the government is concerned, I faced no trouble. There were some problems when I was with the Lake Development Authority, but it's different. I do not want to link it with illegal mining though it was definitely corrupt practices. Even there I had some problems as there were attempts to prevent me from going to some places. There were life threats as well.

Are you planning any other expose?
It can be done when the government assigns me some specific task. I cannot go on myself and bring any scam to light. We can act only when we are authorised by corruption watchdogs such as Lokayukta or courts to do so.

Why do you think you were selected by the Supreme Court to investigate illegal mining in Karnataka and Goa?
Even I don't know why I was picked up. But there must be some specific criteria behind it.

What do you think is the solution for ending corruption in elections?
I think public should take up this cause. Even constitutional authorities should act with will power in this regard.

What do suggest to bring changes in bureaucracy?
There should be screening of career record of government servants at the mid level, say after completion of 15 years of service by them. The screening should be done in all respects -- efficiency, transparency and contribution to society. If it meets certain standards, then only they should be allowed to continue. Government can make a law in this regard.

What do you think is the percentage of honest officials?
No doubt, there are honest officials but the percentage is very less. I can roughly say only 20-30 per cent of the officials are honest. However, I have found that there is fear among officers because of Lokayukta.

Why honest officials are not given key postings?
It's the prerogative of the government and I can't say anything about it. I am happy wherever I am posted.

What are you working on currently?
I spend 30-40 per cent of my time in the Suprme Court- monitored committee that is investigating illegal mining in Goa and Karnataka. Rest of my time is spent on works related to Karnataka Medicinal Plants Authority. Here, we are trying to bring in a system in which people should get more knowledge about medicinal plants.

What he did
Investigated illegal granite quarries in Kanakapura, Ramanagara and Nelamangala taluks and submitted reports to Karnataka government.

Played a crucial role in Lokayukta investigation into illegal mining in Karnataka and submitted two key reports.

Currently working with the Justice MB Shah Commission that is probing illegal mining in Goa, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

Submitted reports on illegal mining for Goa and Orissa. Based on these reports, all mines in the state of Goa were closed by the Supreme Court in September 2012 after a public interest petition.

Currently serving as a member in Central Empowered Committee constituted by the Supreme Court.

Member of joint committee for survey of mines in Bellary, Chitradurga and Tumkur districts.