Statutory, regulatory & various quasi-judicial bodies

Model Answer

Introduction to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) was established by the Government of India in 1964 and granted statutory status through the CVC Act, 2003. Its primary objective is to oversee and supervise vigilance matters in organizations controlled by the Union Government and to combat corruption. While the CVC has played an essential role in tackling corruption, its effectiveness has been subject to both praise and criticism.

Achievements of the CVC in Tackling Corruption

The CVC has been instrumental in addressing corruption through various mechanisms. In 2019, it handled 35,649 cases, of which 34,813 were resolved. This includes recommending criminal proceedings in 72 cases. The CVC has also played a pivotal role in overseeing the CBI, especially in high-profile cases such as the 2G spectrum and Coalgate scams. Furthermore, the launch of the Integrity Index has helped government organizations assess their ethical standards and identify areas for improvement.

The CVC also organizes an annual “Vigilance Week” to raise public awareness about the dangers of corruption, fostering a culture of integrity in society. Additionally, since the enactment of the Whistleblowers Protection Act, 2014, the CVC has been entrusted with handling complaints about corruption and misconduct in the public sector.

Criticisms and Challenges

Despite its successes, the CVC’s effectiveness has been questioned. One significant issue is the lack of transparency and clarity in the appointment process of the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO). For instance, the appointment of PJ Thomas as Chief Vigilance Commissioner in 2010 was quashed by the Supreme Court due to irregularities. Another concern is the CVC’s low conviction rate, which undermines its impact. It is often referred to as a “toothless tiger” because it lacks adjudicatory powers and depends on other agencies for investigations and sanctioning prosecutions.

Furthermore, the CVC has limited resources and investigative authority, often waiting for approvals from other agencies to proceed with inquiries.

Conclusion

While the CVC plays a crucial role in combating corruption in India, its lack of investigative powers, transparency issues in appointments, and low conviction rates diminish its overall effectiveness. Strengthening the CVC with more investigative authority, financial autonomy, and a transparent appointment process could enhance its ability to fight corruption more effectively.