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Question – Discuss the role and functions of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in addressing corruption.
- January 27, 2023
- Posted by: Pallavi Singh
- Category: Daily Answer Writing
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Answer –
Central Vigilance Commission was established in 1964 under the recommendations of Santhanam Committee, it gained status of statutory authority under Central Vigilance Commission Act 2003. It was envisaged to prevent corruption in governance and hold civil servants responsible for their malafide actions.
The CVC is not controlled by any Ministry/Department. It is an independent body that is only responsible to the Parliament.
The Commission consists of:
a) A Central Vigilance Commissioner – Chairperson,
b) Not more than two Vigilance Commissioners – Members.
ROLE & FUNCTIONS OF CVC –
1) CVC inquire or investigate whenever a public servant (Central Government employee) commits an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
2) CVC inquire or investigate against following officials who commit an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988:
a. Members of all-India services serving in the Union and Group ‘A’ officers of the Central government
b. The specified level of officers of the authorities of the Central government
3) CVC superintend the functioning of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (CBI) in cases related to the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
4) CVC direct Delhi Special Police Establishment in investigative cases related to the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
5) CVC review the progress of investigations conducted by the Delhi Special Police Establishment in cases related Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
6) CVC review the progress of those applications that are pending with competent authorities for sanction under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
7) CVC also superintend vigilance departments of government ministries.
8) CVC undertake or cause an inquiry into complaints received under Whistleblower Resolution and recommend appropriate action.
9) Whenever the central government makes rules and regulations governing the vigilance and disciplinary matters relating to members of Central Services and All-India Services, CVC is consulted.
10) The Commission acts as an authority to receive information that is related to suspicious transactions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.
11) It recommends to Central Government for the appointment of Director of Prosecution in Central Bureau of Investigation
12) Lokpal refers complaints to CVC who initiate a preliminary inquiry in respect of officers and officials of Groups A, B, C & D.
Conclusion
The Central Vigilance Commission is often limited in its powers as it is treated as an advisory body with no power to register cases. Even though it is an independent agency, it lacks the resources and power to take action on complaints. Such shortcomings of the systems need to be addressed to curb the menace of corruption in the rapidly growing economy.