Pervasive corruption tarnishing country`s image: PM

New Delhi, Aug 26 (PTI) Indian Prime Minister Manmohan
Singh Wednesday said "pervasive corruption" was tarnishing the
image of the country and also discouraging investors besides
being an impediment to its integration with the world economy.

"The world respects our democracy, our plural and
secular values, our independent judiciary...our pursuit of
equitable and inclusive growth. But pervasive corruption in
our country tarnishes our image.

"It also discourages investors, who expect fair
treatment and transparent dealings. As the country grows and
integrates with the world economy, corruption continues to be
an impediment to harnessing the best of technology and
resources," he told the 17th biennial conference of CBI and
state anti-corruption bureaux here.

Stressing on the urgent need to combat the menace of
corruption, the Prime Minister said "corruption distorts the
rule of law and weakens institutions. It hurts our economic
growth in a variety of ways, apart from hindering our efforts
to build a just, fair and equitable society."

Seeking effective participation of the CBI and officers
of various state governments in "war against corruption", he
said "the malaise of corruption, so sapping our efforts to
march ahead as a nation, should be treated immediately and
effectively." (MORE) PTI