Speech of Mrs Archana Ramasundaram, IPS, ADGP - EOW

 

 

[Text of the Special Address by Mrs Archana Ramasundaram, IPS, ADGP/EOW, Chennai on the occasion of the inauguration of the web-site of the EOW, Tamil Nadu on 4th April,2007 at the Crime-Branch/CID Hqrs. at Chennai.]

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         Respected DGP, my colleagues, officials of the EOW, representatives of the Depositors’ Association and members of the media. 

         I would be emphasizing the obvious when I say that getting connected with outside world and sharing information with other stakeholders is absolutely essential for any organization in today’s world.  Viewed from this angle, launching a web site is a very important achievement for the Economic Offences Wing.  No doubt, this is a proud occasion for the entire staff of all the three wings of the EOW of Tamil Nadu and I would like to add, a matter of personal satisfaction for me. That our DGP is present in our midst in spite of his busy schedule, adds to our happiness.

         Sir, I would like to use this opportunity to mention that this website would compliment our other efforts made in recent months to enhance our performance levels:

  • To start with, the supervision over the investigation of cases in all the three units has been streamlined and made more effective. This has already shown results as the delay in completing investigation has been considerably reduced and a large number of warrants executed against many long absconding accused. Due to our own efforts as well as the steps taken by other agencies, nearly Rs.95.73 Crores were refunded to the depositors in the year 2006.  We have also intensified out efforts with the Interpol for extradition of two accused involved in certain mega-scam cases.

  • Targets have been prescribed for the investigating Officers so as to monitor their performance in an objective manner.

  • Workshops have been held to impart training to our officials with the help of the RBI, Cooperative Department and the Police Training College.

  • EOW officials have also provided valuable assistance to the law officers in putting up a strong counter before the Hon’ble Madras High Court and as a result, the interim stay on the Tamil Nadu Protection of Interest of Depositors’ Act was vacated.

  • We have also held meetings with the District Revenue Officers in various districts to ensure early auction of the attached property of the accused and expedite refund to the complainants. The District Collectors concerned are also being requested to pay personal attention.

  • Strengthening of the infrastructure Of EOW units in terms of computers, fax, telephones and photocopiers etc has also been undertaken. .

          However, I would consider our holding the Depositor’s meetings in recent months a landmark event it was a learning experience for me and my officials.  We were shocked at the lack of awareness among the complainants even about the basic details; (as to which office they should contact).  Though the idea of web site was already in our mind, we made it our top priority so as to fill the gap in communication and act as a bridge between the complainants and other agencies. Therefore, their efforts have also been incorporated in out website.

         My IGs and SsP, ably assisted by their staff, have worked very hard to come up with this comprehensive and user-friendly website. I compliment their efforts.

         We will be fine-tuning the website, as and when required. Updating of the website will be undertaken periodically.  To achieve this objective and to make our endeavour a success, we look forward to the inputs from other officials i.e. Official Liquidators, Administrators, Cooperative Department Officials and, above all, the people.