Public Service is a Duty, Not a Privilege: Lokayukta Justice B.S. Patil Urges Government Employees to Uphold Integrity
Bengaluru: Serving in government is not a privilege but a duty, and every employee must approach their role with discipline, integrity, and a sense of responsibility, said Lokayukta Justice B.S. Patil.
Addressing officers and staff at the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) during Awareness Week 2025, Justice Patil cautioned against complacency in government service. “We must not carry the attitude that ‘anything will do.’ Instead, we must work with awareness and punctuality. The hidden potential within us must be awakened and directed towards a clear goal for nation-building,” he said.
He stressed that every individual has unique strengths, values, and aspirations, but these often remain dormant. “If this inner strength is harnessed with commitment, we can achieve excellence in our tasks. True progress comes when all employees—from the lowest ranks to the top—work collectively. If only a few work sincerely and the rest remain indifferent, no lasting achievement is possible,” he observed.
Justice Patil reminded employees that their salaries are paid from taxpayers’ money. “Government employees are essentially public servants. If we internalize this fact, corruption can be curbed effectively. Through honesty and responsibility, we can build a corruption-free administration,” he asserted.
ಇದನ್ನೂ ಓದಿ: BWSSB Awareness Week 2025: ಸರ್ಕಾರಿ ಕೆಲಸ ವಿಶೇಷಾಧಿಕಾರವಲ್ಲ, ಕರ್ತವ್ಯ: ಲೋಕಾಯುಕ್ತ ನ್ಯಾಯಮೂರ್ತಿ ಬಿ.ಎಸ್. ಪಾಟೀಲ್ ಕರೆ
He also outlined the powers of the Lokayukta under the law to take action against corrupt or negligent officials, and called on employees to contribute towards a transparent and accountable system of governance.
BWSSB Praised for Service and Achievements
BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar lauded the Board’s officers and staff for efficiently supplying water to 1.4 crore residents of Bengaluru. “Their efforts have won several awards for BWSSB. Going forward, collective ideas and initiatives are needed to make our services even more effective,” he said, requesting the Lokayukta’s guidance.
He also noted that BWSSB has completed 60 years of service and will soon celebrate its Diamond Jubilee. “This is a moment to push the Board further ahead and ensure more impactful public service,” he added.
The event concluded with BWSSB officials and staff honoring Justice B.S. Patil for his address.
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