The Honest Always Stand Alone

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About the Book Candid and outspoken, CG Somiah shares his experiences as an Indian Administrative Officer, from his first posting to Orissa as Assistant Collector to the more heady days of fighting terrorism in Punjab, keeping an eye on the country as Home Secretary and Central Vigilance Commissioner and, finally, a six-year tenure as Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

His efforts to stem corruption resulted in a loss of promotion for two years. His colleagues were upset about his plight and some of them were of the view that it was not prudent to defy corrupt politicians who can harm one's career. Somiah, however, heartily disagreed with them.

Speaking straight from the heart, Somiah's narrative is well-knit and crisply put together. It takes us back to the exciting days of Rajiv Gandhi's prime ministership and gives us a glimpse into the discussions that took place at the highest political level. As its title suggests, The Honest Always Stand Alone marks the journey of a man who always upheld the truth.

About the Author CG Somiah was the Comptroller and Auditor General of India from 1990 to 1996. He was the first Indian to be elected a member of the United Nations Board of Audit by the UN General Assembly in 1993. In 1995 he became the Chairman of the Board responsible for the audit of the UN, its many agencies around the world and the UN Peace Keeping Force. On retirement he functioned as Advisor to the World Bank for a period of one year.

An enthusiastic tennis player as well as a regular golfer, CG Somiah has held many important posts in the Government of India, including Home Secretary and Central Vigilance Commissioner. He lives in Bengaluru with his wife, Indira and still enjoys his game of bridge.

Preface It is not easy to write the story of an eventful life, especially after reaching the age of seventy-five, as memory is usually a casualty. For one who had never kept any notes, the task of writing a book was all the more difficult. My memory, however. has served me well and I could weave into the narration several interesting and humorous incidents that took place in my life and career. These incidents are factual without any embellishment. Any errors are due only to a less clear recollection of events.

I have to acknowledge the help received from my daughter Pria in deciphering my handwritten manuscript and getting a dozen copies printed for private reading. I thank my friend, K Srinivasan, retired IAS Officer of the Orissa cadre, for his help and support. Finally, a special word of deep gratitude to my beloved wife Indira whose affectionate companionship and lively encouragement made this book possible.

This book is dedicated to the dwindling band of honest officers who are battling heavy odds to maintain their integrity and dignity to extend corruption-free good governance to the people of India. They need all our support.

**Contents and Sample Pages**