New York Times carries article on Chandy's webcasting

Thiruvananthapuram, Jul 19: At a time when corruption and lack of transparency in administration are the hotly debated topics in the country, the 24-hour live webcast of the functioning of Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's office has become news in the latest edition of

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The NYT has carried the report in the global business section of its internet edition under the title "Transparency in Government, via webcams in India."

"In an India beset by kickback scandals at the highest reaches of government, and where petty bribes at police stations and motor vehicle departments are often considered a matter of course, Oommen Chandy is making an online stand," the NYT reported.

Chandy told the newspaper that he wanted to create an atmosphere where everything would be transparent.

The site was launched on July 1 as part of Congress-led UDF Government's efforts to ensure maximum transparency in administration, a promise made by Chandy immediately after his takeover.

The website -- www.keralacm.gov.in -- has facility for citizens to lodge complaints and petitions. People can watch live meetings, press conferences and Cabinet briefings by logging on to the site.

PTI