Prime Minister Narendra Modi was adamant in his support for the central investigation agencies, asserting that the government has the "political will to fight corruption" and that officers should act without holding back against corrupt individuals, no matter how powerful they may be.
He urged officers not to be discouraged by the past influence of the corrupt and the environment they have made to tarnish the reputation of investigative agencies while speaking to a crowd at the CBI's diamond jubilee celebrations.
“They have been part of the government and system for years. Even today they are in power in some states. These people will keep distracting you, but you have to focus on your work. No corrupt person should be spared. There should be no laxity in our efforts. This is the wish of the country, this is the wish of the countrymen. The country, law and Constitution are with you,” he said.
The PM has expressed support for central investigation agencies' efforts twice in the past few days despite claims that they serve as the Center's henchmen and days after some opposition parties moved the Supreme Court against “misuse” of these agencies.
He mentioned how CBI has instilled trust amongst common citizens through its work. “CBI’s name is on everyone’s lips. It is like a brand for truth and justice. The agency's chief responsibility is to rid the country of corruption which is not an ordinary crime. It snatches the rights of the poor, begets many other crimes and is the biggest obstacle in the path of justice and democracy,” he said.